malta public transport journey planner

Routes and Timetables

The bus network.

For such a small island, there are a large number of bus routes, and you are never very far from a bus stop. Frequencies are good on the main routes, but less so on other routes, and it often pays to check timetables.

There is some logic to the route numbering system. TD routes are branded Tallinja Direct and are non-stop or limited stop routes linking key points at a higher fare. Routes prefixed X are also limited stop but call at more places than the TD routes and normal fares are charged: X4 links Valletta with the Airport and beyond, whilst X1 to X3 link the Airport with Cirkewwa, Sliema and Bugibba respectively. Note that route X300 actually counts as as a TD route with higher fares.

Route numbers in the series 1-99 run to and from Valletta bus station, and run roughly in geographical order in an anti-clockwise direction around Valletta. Numbers in the 100s and 200s are generally routes not serving Valletta (but there are exceptions: Valletta local routes are numbered 130 and 133 , whilst route 122 runs from Valletta to Mater Dei Hospital, and to confuse matters further, three routes in the 2xx series which used to terminate at Mater Dei Hospital now extend through to Valletta). Gozo bus services are numbered in the 300s .

A small number of Night Routes numbered in the N series serve the bars, clubs and restaurants of San Giljan at higher fares. On Gozo there is a single journey with an N prefix - a late evening journey on Fridays and Saturdays from Victoria to the ferry at Mgarr.

A recent development is the introduction of a demand responsive minibus service branded Tallinja On Demand (formerly TD Plus) which links specific bus stops in the Sliema, St Julian's, Pembroke, San Gwann and Birkirkara area. Trips are booked using the Tallinja app.

In Summer 2021 new routes X133, 150 and 300 were introduced designed to connect with the new Gozo Fast Ferry, serving the Lascaris stop in Valletta, not far from the bottom of the Barrakka Lift.

Official Timetables

OFFICIAL TIMETABLES on the MPT website show individual routes - you need to know the route number. There is no official timetable book; timetable leaflets have been produced in the past but printed information is likely to be restricted to a route map.

The Tallinja App can be downloaded to your smartphone from the iPhone App Store or the Google Play Store. This shows which routes serve your closest stop, and also shows realtime information with the estimated time of arrival of buses at your nearest stop within the next 30 minutes.

Google maps also has detailed timings from most bus stops. Particularly useful is the Google Maps app on Android and Apple devices where most stops show the next 25 departures, and individual timings can be clicked on to show the whole journey with timings at every stop served.

The official Journey Planner is getting better but it is difficult to get meaningful information from it.

Timetables produced for this website

I produce my own 20-page unofficial timetable summary in pdf format for this website as soon after the Summer and Winter timetable changes as possible. It shows all bus routes in Malta in numerical order, with departure times from the start points, also approximate journey times to principal intermediate points are shown as a rough guide. There is a separate 2-page document for Gozo. These are compiled by myself to assist travellers and enthusiasts:

MALTA AND GOZO UNOFFICIAL BUS TIMETABLES: MALTA WINTER 2023-24 (20 pages) and GOZO WINTER 2023-24 (2 pages), both valid from Sept 28th, 2023 and expected to be valid until early June 2024. The Malta timetable has been amended 28/10/23 to show the VFS service as summer only as it does not appear to be running.

The main changes from September 28th are significant frequency increases on Mondays to Saturdays on route 31, also on Mondays to Fridays on routes 13A, 21, 22, 48, 54, 58, 62, 91, 92, 202, 203 and 222 (also route 82 during peak hours). N13 and Gozo 301 keep their summer frequency into the winter.

The Malta timetable has been reformatted to avoid separate documents for Summer and Winter, and therefore now also shows Summer 2023 details for those routes which are substantially different from season to season, as a rough guide for Summer 2024. Gozo is now shown in a separate timetable, which still has separate Summer and Winter versions - for likely Summer 2024 timings see the Gozo timetable Summer 2023 .

WARNING - Scheduled running times as shown on the MPT website generally vary according to the time of day and day of the week, also the time of year (and in some cases look rather suspect and inconsistent). Journey times shown in the timetable summary are based on typical winter off-peak timings (Monday to Friday early afternoon) as per the website. At quiet times, for example early morning or late evening, buses are liable to depart from intermediate points several minutes earlier , and at peak times and in summer they may run later than shown. In any case, once a bus has set off from its start point I'm not sure to what extent drivers adhere to intermediate timings en route - it's always best to arrive at the stop in plenty of time, or arm yourself with the Tallinja App which gives realtime information.

Seasonal and Temporary Changes

The following routes are extended to popular beaches each summer (mid-June to late September): 49 is extended from Ghadira to Armier and runs daily, 101 is extended from Mgarr to Gnejna Bay and 109 and 109A are extended from Bajjada to Ghar Lapsi, whilst 74 runs down the hill to and from Blue Grotto en route. Several routes have enhanced frequencies in summer, notably 212, 221 to 223, 225 and night route N13, also 322 on Gozo. The two TD routes on Gozo run during the summer timetable period only. Summer timings in 2023 commenced on Sunday June 11th and ran until Wednesday September 27th (likely delayed from the previous Sunday).

For those interested in past route changes there is a list of recent changes to bus routes in Malta and Gozo.

Temporary Diversions - The nature of the road network is such that bus routes are frequently diverted because of roadworks or special events, sometimes for a few hours, sometimes for weeks or months. It is beyond the scope of this website to mention all but the longest term diversions. You can find details on the Service Updates page of the Malta Public Transport website. Short notice changes are sometimes mentioned on the MPT Facebook page .

Special Events - Additional services or journeys are often laid on for festivals and even concerts. For example, a whole network of late night services operates for the annual Notte Bianca in October.

Home » Home » Transport and getting around

Getting around in Malta and Gozo: Public transport, taxis and more

One of the major advantages of Malta’s small size is that getting around is easy, and you won’t need much travel time to explore the country. You can access a modern, relatively cheap and reliable public transportation system of route buses, high-quality taxi services and other types of transport in Malta.

In other words, There are good (and inexpensive) ways of getting around Malta and Gozo on your holiday.

In this guide, I’ll show you all the different types of transport and a little info on hiring a car and driving in Malta .

Save big on sightseeing with iSeeMalta , with hop-on/hop-off buses and boats, combo tickets for museums and the ferry to the Blue Lagoon!

Getting Around in Malta using public transport

The only types of public transport in Malta nowadays are 1) a system of route buses and 2) ferries in key parts of Malta. There’s no underground or metro, and although a railway service once existed (late 19th/early 20th century), all that remains are old train station buildings.

The bus routes, operated by Malta Public Transport, can get you anywhere you want to go in Malta and Gozo between 5:30 a.m. and 11 p.m. A night service runs on Friday and Saturday nights and public holidays.

Getting around Malta by bus might not be the fastest way if you’ve planned your trip around an itinerary , but other than walking or cycling it is surely the most economical. So, if you have a little patience and are not in a hurry, consider using this service.

The Maltese bus network is made of 120+ routes and over 1900 bus stops connecting the most important destinations on the island, including the Malta International Airport , the Valletta cruise liner terminal and the Gozo ferry terminals at Ċirkewwa and Valletta (from where you can catch a ferry to Malta’s sister island of Gozo ).

Buses are fairly efficient, with some occasional hiccups, serving the major tourist areas and places of interest . The main bus terminus is located just outside of Malta’s capital city, Valletta . Other major bus nodes are located at the airport, Buġibba , at Ċirkewwa (Gozo ferry) and Gozo’s largest town of Victoria, with several low-floor buses serving each of them.

You can find ferries in a few key places, most notably:

• Between Valletta and Sliema
• Between Valletta and The Three Cities
• Between Ċirkewwa and Mġarr Harbour in Gozo
• Between Valletta and Mġarr Harbour in Gozo.

More on those public transport routes further below: Ferries in Malta and Gozo .

Using public transport: Tips and handy resources

You can plan your bus trips using the website of Malta Public Transport . Just specify your point of departure and the destination you have in mind, and you get all route options available to you.

TIP: The journey planner of Malta Public Transport works most of the time, but you get better results by looking up the bus stop names through Google Maps and entering departure/arrival points instead of place names or tourist sites.

Other handy resources:

• Download a bus route map here (Malta Public Transport website)
• For Android phones from the Google Play Store
• For iPhone from iTunes

The app makes it easy to plan trips and get real-time info on routes when you’re on the go.

Looking for tours and excursions in Malta and Gozo?

Get my recommendations on the best day trips, boat trips, excursions and activities and book in advance!

Bus tickets and prices

How much do bus tickets cost.

During the day, a bus ticket costs €2.50, and the night rate is €3.00 , all year round.

Multi-day tickets

If you’re planning to stay for 7 or more days, know that the Malta public transport chip card, locally referred to as the ‘ Tallinja card’, offers cheaper fares than single tickets. Three Tallinja card offerings are most suited for visiting travellers:

• Explore card at €21 (adult) or €15 (child) – offering unlimited bus travel for 7 days
• Explore Flex card starting at €6 (for a 24-hour long illimited use of the bus services, or €15 for 4 days) and offering four different packages including illimited bus travel on all bus route options plus sightseeing options. For example, the Explore Plus package (at €69) includes 7 days of unlimited bus travel + a return trip from Valletta to Gozo on the Gozo Highspeed ferry + 1-day hop-on/hop-off bus tour (open top buses) + a harbour cruise.
• 12-Day Journey Card card at €15 – offers reduced fares for 12 journeys (or 6 trips using Night routes or Tallinja Direct routes, whose names respectively start with N and TD).

Tip: A personalised Tallinja card is the best option if you are staying longer in Malta (more than one month), as this travel card gives you access to public bus services for free.

Where can I buy tickets?

You can pay for single-ticket rides very easily with contactless payment on board the bus using a VISA credit or debit card. (Other credit card brands are currently not accepted for this method). Multi-day tickets and passes still need to be purchased from ticket booths or machines.

You can buy bus tickets and passes the traditional way:

• In the arrivals hall at Malta International Airport (8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. daily)
• At the Valletta bus terminal (6 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. daily)
• At the Victoria (Gozo) bus terminal (Mon-Sat 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., Sun: closed)
• Directly from the bus driver on all buses. Do make sure to offer exact/small changes – it’s not unusual for bus drivers to get upset when offering a 10-Euro note or higher amount for a single ticket.
• From card dispensing machines (available 24/7) listed here .
• From local retail shops and stationers (bus cards only, not single tickets).

Unfortunately, they’re not for sale online yet. The easiest is planning what type of ticket/card suits you best and buying one at the airport from the sales office (if your flight arrives within opening hours), at the card dispensing machine located in the Arrivals hall or when you get on the bus (for single tickets only).

Check out my two guidebooks full of local knowledge and my best recommendations for your trip, and up-to-date for 2024 !

Malta & Gozo guide book Valletta : An Insider’s Guide to Malta’s Capital

Take the hassle out of planning your trip to Malta and be an informed traveller!

The old Malta bus – Did you know?

Up until mid-2011, local bus routes were serviced by renovated, brightly coloured Maltese buses originally built as far back as the 1950s. Malta’s bus services underwent a major overhaul in recent years, which means the older buses, which tourists and some locals much loved, vanished from the street sight.

Although no doubt the new bus fleet provides a more comfortable ride and causes significantly less pollution on Maltese roads, the old Maltese bus was an icon of the country. You’ll find a few of these buses providing tourist tours in places like Sliema, and a few of them were exported to the UK as well.

Ferries in Malta and Gozo

Being surrounded by the sea, you don’t need to depend on just land-based transportation options. In fact, as traffic congestion has significantly increased over the years in Malta, sometimes ferries are a far better alternative.

These are the ferry services that can really make your life easier when you go sightseeing around the Maltese islands:

• Gozo Channel ferries are the most popular ferry service and form the main link between Malta and Gozo. A trip takes around 20-25 minutes, and you can take a car on board.
• You can also get a fast ferry from Valletta to Gozo using the Gozo Highspeed ferry service. Trips take under 45 minutes, but only foot passengers can be transported, so you’ll need a way to get around once you land in Gozo.
• Hop-on / Hop-off ferries operated by iSeeMalta provide a lot of flexibility for sightseeing, with stops at Sliema ferries, Buġibba, Comino (Blue Lagoon) and Gozo at a low price. ( You can buy tickets online here )
• Valletta Ferry Services offers two Valletta ferry services. The Sliema ferry takes you across Marsamxett Harbour to/from Valletta (making for a great connection with boat trip providers and the iSeeMalta ferry mentioned above, located at Sliema ferries), while the other takes you to the Three Cities (across Grand Harbour). Cheap, fast and convenient.

Water taxis

Speaking of the Three Cities, at Birgu waterfront, you can also hop on a water taxi. They’re often gondola-styled little boats.

Getting around in Malta with a water taxi is a faster way to travel between the cities around the Grand Harbour. It is also a nice and peaceful way to experience the historic harbour than by bus. Water taxis are also a fun way of getting around, especially when travelling with children.

A trip that takes around 10 minutes – apart from being quick, it is also cheap at €2.00 one way. Boats leave any time between around 8 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. in winter and 7:30 a.m. – 8:15 p.m. in summer. They depart from Lascaris (Valletta), next to the regular Three Cities ferry departure point and Birgu Waterfront gate (Porte de la Victoire).

How to get to and get around in Gozo

Malta Public Transport operates 16 bus routes in Gozo. But first, you need to get to the Ċirkewwa Ferry Terminal, from where you can catch a 20-minute ride across the water on the Gozo Channel ferry that operates daily between Ċirkewwa in Malta and Mġarr in Gozo. Alternatively, you can catch the high-speed ferry to Gozo from Valletta.

The following bus route options can take you to Ċirkewwa from various towns and villages across the island: 41, 42, 101, 221, 222, X1, X1A and X300.

The Gozo Channel runs a ferry boat service to Gozo daily, usually with trips every 45 minutes. Foot passengers (adults) are charged €4.65 for a round-trip ticket, while the charge to carry over a car and driver is €15.70 at the time of writing. Payment for tickets is made in Gozo (on your way back to Malta) before boarding the ferry.

Once you make the crossing, you can go to the Vapur bus stop and hop back on a bus from Mġarr harbour in Gozo and ride to other villages in Gozo ( route map here ). When using the bus service in Gozo, you can travel using the same bus cards and tickets used in Malta.

Although it’s definitely the cheapest mode of transport to go around in Gozo, the bus service itself gets mixed reviews for efficiency and punctuality. If you have the budget and want to stay in Gozo, I’d recommend hiring a car instead . It’s pretty easy and safe to drive anywhere in Gozo with a car rental.

Get more info on this topic here: How to catch the Malta to Gozo Ferry .

Getting to Gozo from the airport

If you’re looking to travel to Gozo directly from the airport, these are your options:

• The X1 bus route (operated by Malta Public Transport) can take you to the Gozo ferry next to the Ċirkewwa bus stop for €2.50 per person.
• Taxis and transfers can take you right up to Ċirkewwa
• You can rent a car from the airport and take it up to Gozo. The ferry boats carry cars and trucks between Malta and Gozo.

Get more info on this topic here: How to get from Malta Airport to Gozo .

Taxis in Malta

Several private companies run efficient (but not very cheap) taxi services in Malta. You can book different types of vehicles depending on the number of people travelling – for example; most companies offer both standard cars for up to 4 persons and mini-vans for larger groups.

Where do you grab a cab?

You’ll find taxi stands just outside the Malta Airport, at City Gate in Valletta and outside the cruise liner terminal, in Sliema and St. Julian’s area, at major bus stations and in the vicinity of popular hotels and tourist resorts.

Most private operators can be reached for a quick pickup as well, apart from the regular taxi stands.

What does a taxi ride typically cost?

• White taxis – which operate the official Malta taxi service – charge fares calculated according to the destination using a fare meter.
• Other private companies that use black or blue cars have different rates. For example, a trip from Malta Airport to Sliema or St. Julian’s in a standard car would cost around €30.

Some of the private taxi operators in Malta:

• cab – Book through their website. Usually lowest-priced.
• John’s Garage – Contact number: +356 2298 2298

Taxis in Valletta (minicabs)

A service of electric minicabs run in Malta’s capital city of Valletta, charging a flat fare of €5 for three people. Like taxis, these minicabs can be hired out either by hailing them as they go by or at Electric Mini Cab Stands in Valletta. One can also book a minicab by calling +356 7741 4177.

Airport transfers

Malta International Airport , located near the villages of Luqa and Gudja, lies less than 10 km away from the capital, Valletta. Getting to your hotel from the airport is easy as you can choose from a number of options:

• Arrange for a Malta airport transfer via private taxi or shared shuttle bus. By far the easiest option. (Recommendations: Any.cab and Welcome Pickups )
• Hail a cab yourself from the stand full of taxis waiting outside the arrivals lounge. Reliable but a more expensive option.
• Hop onto a route bus (run by Malta Public Transport), which gets you pretty much anywhere at a low cost. Routes X1, X1A, X2, X3, X4, and 119 have limited bus stops and operate to and from the Airport from different localities to different destinations.
• Rent a car from the numerous operators represented there.

Renting a car

Renting a car in Malta is a good option when you want to uncover all the secrets the island has to offer. You might, for example, want to visit hidden, more secluded beaches like the ones I mention in my Top 10 Best Beaches in Malta article.

You can find representatives of car rental companies at the Malta International Airport, but shopping around for the best rates isn’t a bad idea.

A few key points to consider when hiring a car in Malta:

• Driving is on the left
• Road signs are in English and Maltese
• International driving licences are legal in Malta
• Heavy traffic on the roads around Valletta, Sliema and St Julian’s, especially during rush hour (early morning, late afternoon/early evening).

Renting a Motorbike

Motorcycle enthusiasts can share their two-wheeled love on the Maltese roads quite easily as several companies offer motorbike rentals. All you need is to be 18+ or 21+ years old (depending on the vehicle type)  and in possession of a valid driving licence, and you can be on a bike in no time. Motorcycles offer two benefits over cars – traffic is no concern, and neither is a lack of parking spots.

These are 3 popular sites from where you can hire a motorbike in Malta, although there are many more options:

• AHS Malta – Contact number: +356 2134 0149
• ST Rentals Malta – Contact numbers: +356 2720 4687 / +356 9991 1176
• AM Rentals Malta – Contact numbers: +356 2099 4723 / +356 7733 3322

Driving Your Own Vehicle in Malta

If you’re exploring Europe with your own car, you can easily travel from Sicily to Malta by ferry. The same considerations mentioned apply when hiring a car when you’re using your vehicle in Malta. However, you might want to take note of the following companies that offer roadside assistance and breakdown services:

• RMF – Contact numbers: +356 2124 2222 (Malta) and +356 2155 8844 (Gozo)
• MET – Contact numbers: +356 2122 7676 or +356 2122 7979
• MTC – Contact numbers: +356 2143 3333 or +356 7943 3333

Here are a few tips for driving your own car in Malta:

• Vehicles with foreign registration can remain in Malta for six months in any given year without applying for a permit.
• The Malta national speed limit is 50 km/h in urban areas and between 70 and 80 km/h in extra-urban areas. Speed cameras are placed in several main arteries, although none measure average speed on a trajectory.
• Wearing a seatbelt is compulsory.
• Accidents must be reported to the nearest police station. For insurance purposes, you shouldn’t move your vehicle before the police arrive.
• The acceptable limit of blood alcohol content for drivers in Malta is 0.08%.

Check out another article with more tips, facts and FAQs on driving in Malta .

Other modes of transport in Malta and Gozo

Cycling and e-bikes.

Despite being environmentally friendly, cycling isn’t the safest mode of transport, particularly on the busier main island of Malta, because there are no proper bicycle lanes on the roads. Also, traffic can be heavy in the centre of Malta (much less so in Gozo), Maltese drivers drive fast, and the uneven land formations and intense summer heat add tough challenges for cyclists.

If you’re staying in Gozo, where roads are still a lot quieter, and you’re up for a good cardio workout, it’s a good option to explore this particular island on two wheels.

You can rent bicycles from:

• Be Green Malta in Qawra – contact number: +356 7703 0304
• Gozo Adventures – contact number: +356 9999 4592
• Eco Sports in Buġibba – contact number: +356 9947 1627.

Alternatively, you can also find e-bike stations from Malta Public Transport, where you can rent bikes on the go (in both Malta and Gozo). This service is called Tallinja Bike , and they’ve got a good number of docking stations in the more central parts of Malta and Gozo. Fees are reasonable, starting at €3.00 for the first 30 minutes.

Edward is the Founder and Editor of Malta Uncovered and author of two guidebooks on Malta and Valletta.

As a tourist-turned-expat with Maltese roots, he knows the islands inside out and helps thousands of visitors enjoy a memorable trip every year.

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Hello Edward, Many thanks for your invaluable advice on visiting Malta this November. It has made it easier to plan trips- visits and eating out.

Happy to hear that Veronica. Thank you for the feedback and have a great trip!

Thanks for all the very important information.

Hi! I have a question regarding public transportation. What is difference between routes marked ‘X’, like X1, X2 and all other?

Hi Ruta, Happy New Year! The X routes are the ones that provide service to and from the airport. Those routes will get you to/from the airport and the most popular locations around Malta at a modest fee.

Dear Edward Thank you so much for all this valuable information, it is going to make my trip this october much easier! I’m going to malta for 5 days (mit october) and I wanted to know if I’d need two days to explore gozo? we are staying in sliema and we’d love to visit comino and gozo itself, should we go early to gozo ferries and first go to comino and later on that day visit gozo or is this way to much to see in one day? We have been struggeling with the thought of or going by bus everywhere or hiring a car, which do you recommend?

Best regards, Lore

Hi Lore. Tough question! If you’re only in Malta for 5 days I’d spend one day in Gozo. If the weather’s decent (which it isn’t right now) you could take a boat trip from Sliema that combines both Gozo and the Blue Lagoon at Comino.

As for transport: Buses aren’t very efficient and with just 5 days it’d be a shame to spend a lot of time travelling. However, Sliema is probably the worst place for car rental. Apart from traffic congestion, unless your accommodation includes private parking you won’t be happy trying to find a spot. I’d highly recommend travelling over water as much as you can, so taking a ferry to Valletta (super easy from the Ferries side of Sliema) or taking a few boat trips , as mentioned.

Hi, i am planning a visit to Malta in October, is this a good time to visit. Will the tourist attractions still be operating or do they start closing at that time (boat trips, beach bars etc)

Hi Richard, some operators will start closing up shop for summer later in the month, so I’d recommend going in early October if you can.

Hi, would you recommend the bus tour or Jeep tour in Malta? Is the jeep ride very uncomfortable?

Hi Jo, I’m not a huge fan of either, although the Jeep safari tour can be enjoyable if you’re not necessarily after seeing all the tourist sites. You will be going offroad though, so it’s not going to be super comfortable. I have more info here: Best Malta tours and excursions .

Hello, We are staying at Comino Island mid May – which cab company is the best/most economical to book from Malta airport to the ferry and back a week later? Would prefer not to share a shuttle. Many thanks Coleen

Hi Coleen, I’ve never been disappointed by eCabs but if you’re looking for the most economical option, Taxify (the local Uber flavour) gets good reviews and will cost a little less.

I will travel to Malta and Gozo with my family in mid of September.We will spend 3 days in Gozo and then 4 days in Malta. We would like to visit Comino too, what is the easiest and cheap possibility to do it? The ferry between Gozo and Malta has a stop there? Best regards, Andi

Hi Andi, unfortunately no, the Gozo ferry doesn’t stop at Comino. You’ll have to take a separate (smaller) ferry to get there. The two options are: 1) From Mġarr harbour in Gozo or 2) from Marfa (small bay in the far North of Malta). You can also get day trips by boat from popular tourist places like Sliema, St. Julian’s and Buġibba/St. Paul’s Bay but they’ll be a little more expensive. I’d probably go for option 1 and spend a morning in Comino at the Blue Lagoon. Go early to avoid the crowds though (as it’ll still be a highly popular destination).

I am planning to take the Hop on hop off tour for Malta. Do you prefer the same for Gozo or a jeep safari? p.s. I have a 1.5 year old toddler.

Hi Maryam, with a 1.5y toddler I don’t think a jeep safari will be a comfortable option, so between those two options it’d be the hop on/hop off I’d recommend.

This Is such a valuable guide. My second time visiting Malta and I wish I had looked this site up before. Thank you!

Thanks for the feedback Gary, glad you like it! 🙂

Hi Edward, Is there a Bus timetable available online? We are staying in Bugibba for only 3 days in May on a reconnaissance mission to Malta for the family and want to get round as much as possible. Best regards, Jim

Are there bike hire shops and is Malta good for cycling? Thanks, Jess

Hi Jess, yes, you can rent bicycles in Malta but I would only recommend cycling in Gozo. Most roads in Malta are a little too crazy to cycle safely, although it’s not uncommon for people to do so anyway. Have a look at EcoBikes Malta – Buġibba . There’s also a bike sharing option: Nextbike .

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Public transport is a fantastic way to get round Malta. You'll find getting around the island easy on the brightly-coloured buses – especially if you know all the tips and tricks to make the most of them.

Get going straight away

Malta Public Transport

You can start your public transport journey as soon as you get to Malta, once you’re in the Arrivals Lounge. Here, the Malta Public Transport sales office acts as your one-stop-shop for any travel card you could need or advice on how to get around. And, if you still haven’t downloaded the Tallinja app, this could be the perfect opportunity, as the office provides free Wi-Fi to customers.

Download the app

For starters, did you know that there’s a brilliant (and free!) Tallinja app to help you get to know what public transport options are available to you? Downloadable to your smartphone and available through both the App Store and the Google Play Store, this app provides all sorts of helpful information, will show you the closest bus stop, and will even let you know real-time bus arrival times. Plus, if you’re still not sure how to get from A to B, this handy tool will also help you figure out the best route.

Choose a travel card

Speaking of travel cards, you’re likely to find these great value if you’re staying for more than a few days. In fact, the Explore Card will give you seven days of travel for just €21. Although cash tickets on board the bus are only €1.50 in winter and €2 in summer, prepaid travel cards ensure a quicker boarding time, and give you more for your money. If you’re planning a shorter visit, the 12 Single Day Journey tickets at €15 also offer great value.  

If you’re hopping on and off buses but still wondering what the TD routes stand for, here’s some more insight for you – they go direct. So, instead of taking you to Valletta to change route at the terminal there, you can go direct between locations like St Julian’s and Sliema, or the Airport and Bugibba.

For all your travel needs

Finally, if the Explore Card doesn’t seem like a good enough deal, you can even do one better by upgrading to ExplorePlus – which will give you seven days of unlimited travel on all Malta Public Transport buses (including TD routes), plus two trips on the Valletta ferry and sightseeing options including a day on the hop-on, hop-off City sightseeing buses or a trip to Comino by boat (including lunch) on Captain Morgan Cruises. That’s sea-and-land travel at its best!

For more information about getting around Malta on Public Transport, or to plan your next journey, visit www.publictransport.com.mt

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A Guide to Travel in Malta by Bus

Travel by bus I hear you scream?! Yes I had exactly the same thoughts when multiple recommend to me that getting the bus in Malta would be far less money and more efficient when we visited in July.  I haven’t been on a bus in years, and the last time I spend extended periods of time on a bus was when I couldn’t drive and wanted to go and see my friends every weekend. However, after doing lots and lots of research I decided we wouldn’t hire a car in Malta (it’s expensive, at around £30-£40 a day) and instead give this famous bus network a go! And I was surprisingly delighted…

Pretty much everywhere in Malta can be reached by bus – honestly it’s true. After the legendary yellow buses were retired in 2011, a fleet of modern vehicles run by British company Arriva were introduced to connect every single town, village and hamlet within the island.

HOW MUCH ARE TICKETS

From 2016 onwards prices have stayed the same – a single ticket which is valid for two hours costs €2 (can be bought from the driver with cash) and night buses (N) and express lines (TD) cost €3 for a single journey, and are also valid for two hours. You can also buy 12-Journey Cards for €15, which can be used by more than one person, or a 7-Day Explore Card for €21. You can buy these from kiosks – you can find them at Valletta and Bugibba bus stations, Malta Airport, Sliema Ferries, Mater Dei Hospital, and the the Victoria bus station in Gozo. In hindsight we would have opted for the 7-Day Explore Card as we potentially used the bus enough to warrant a saving, but if you are only going on a few journeys I wouldn’t bother. They aren’t dirt cheap but they are compared to taxis and hire cars.

HOW OFTEN ARE THEY

Be prepared to wait like the locals do. Arm yourself with some patience and trust that the bus is coming, or it may have been early but there will be another one soon. We got quite frustrated on our first day when we couldn’t work out where we were going or what bus to get on, but as the days passed we worked it out and it was super simple.

Don’t expect buses to run every 5-10 minutes – more like every half an hour, or once an hour sometimes. Oh and the buses also stop frequently, and often take loopy, twisting roads – getting around takes time. The journey is worth the wait!

Remember, Malta is the second highest densely populated country in Europe with nearly half a million people in only 315 squa

Generally speaking, the smaller the number, the quicker, more frequent and more reliable the bus will be. Lines starting with ‘X’ or ‘TD’ are ‘express’ – even though, in Maltese terms, that is relative too. Two-digit routes usually run every 15 mins or so, and three-digit routes run every half-hour or every hour.

re kilometers. In peak hour (7-9 in the morning, and 5-7 in the afternoon) expect traffic, especially between Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s and St George Bay. And you may not be able to sit down either… so be prepared for that.

Like I said above, you can pretty much go anywhere on the island by bus – you may just need to change bus routes a few times. Below is a recent bus route map which I’d recommend printing out and taking with you on your trip.

To see up-to-date, full bus timetables and route maps, check online at  www.publictransport.com.mt . The website also has a handy online journey planner. If you’re staying in Malta for an extended period, download Malta Public Transport’s Tallinja app, which provides real-time information about bus arrivals and departures.

There are six different express services running between the airport and various parts of the island, including St Julian’s, Sliema and Ċirkewwa. The X4 runs between Valletta and the airport, and takes just over 20 minutes. For Sliema and St Julian’s, catch the X3 from the airport.

Most buses run from around 5.30am to 11pm, and frequency varies depending on the popularity of the route. In towns and villages the bus terminus is usually found on or near the parish church square.

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JAMES DAVIS

A great pity that the legendary yellow buses were retired as they had loads of character. The new Arriva buses may be more reliable and efficient but they are all the same. the old buses had religious icons hanging all over the interior with crosses, pictures and models of the Virgin Mary. The paintwork was peeling and the cushioned seats suspect! I missed them when I went back there recently after thirty years.

Such a shame!!! xx

Abbi Johnson

Thanks so much for this Sophie! I am currently planning my trip to Malta for next month, and have been trying to decide between car hire and bus, but I think I am going with buses now!

Ah I am glad its been useful theres a whole series be sure to check it out!!!

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Getting around Malta, the small island that delivers big experiences

May 14, 2022 • 7 min read

Crossing the Grand Harbour by dghajsa water taxi is one of Malta's most memorable journeys © CaronB / Getty Images

A compact archipelago of three islands at the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is easy to explore.

Take advantage of a convenient network of buses and ferries, set out on journeys of discovery in a well-priced rental car, or ride an e-bike or electric scooters along the spectacular waterfront esplanades of St Julian’s and Sliema. Here's our guide to the best ways to get around Malta.

Ride the bus to (most) parts of Malta and Gozo

Both Malta and its sister island of Gozo are compact, and bus services operated by Malta Public Transport are a convenient way to explore. On Malta, routes begin from the Valletta Bus Station, just south of the City Gate, while on Gozo, the town of Victoria is the central focus. Tiny Comino is usually visited on organized day trips from Gozo or Malta and it's small enough to explore on foot. 

The frequency of buses ranges from every ten minutes to hourly on less busy routes. However, the lack of punctuality can be a challenge, and afternoon and evening buses often run late. Buses are best used for focused day trips to places such as Mdina and Marsaxlokk. Because most routes originate in the central hubs of Valletta and Victoria, using buses to visit several destinations in a single day can be problematic.

Check Malta Public Transport's online journey planner or the Tallinja App for bus schedules and timings.

Tickets for public transport in Malta

Single tickets including a two-hour transfer window cost €2 (US$2.10) and can be bought on board buses. There’s also the option of a 12-journey card for €15 (US$16), which can be used concurrently by couples or families. Explore Cards cost €21 (US$22.30) and offer unlimited bus travel for seven days, while ExploreFlex is a rechargeable stored-value card offering discounted travel on buses and also harbor journeys with Valletta Ferry Services.

Another variation is an ExplorePlus Meep card for €39 (US$41.40) incorporating e-bike rental, on-demand van services, and sightseeing by bus and harbor cruise. For longer-term stays in Malta, it’s worth signing up for a stored-value Tallinja Card . There is a registration fee, but it offers the best discounts on buses and Valletta Ferry Services, and also integrates with the Tallinja App.

Spectacular passenger ferries connect Valletta to nearby cities

Several useful passenger ferries are run by Valletta Ferry Services . From the southern edge of Valletta's fortified peninsula, ferry services cross Grand Harbour to the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua). A second service runs from Marsamxett Harbour on the northern edge of Valletta to the commercial district of Sliema. Ferries depart regularly from 7am to 7pm daily from October to May, extending to around midnight from June to September. Bikes are transported for free.

Another option for crossing from Valletta to the Three Cities is by dgħajsa – Malta's traditional hand-rowed water taxi service. These boats were first launched in the 17th century, and boatmen charge €2 for a one-way crossing. Passing under the golden, honey-colored walls of Fort St. Angelo , it's a brilliant way to cross Grand Harbour.

Explore off the beaten path with a rental car

Many remote beaches and smaller towns and villages on both Malta and Gozo are not serviced by bus, so having your own vehicle is recommended. Note, however, that road traffic in Malta is very busy, especially in the built-up area around Valletta, Sliema and St Julians, and parking can be difficult to find. Driving and looking for somewhere to park in the narrow heritage streets of Valletta is not recommended. Park up before exploring Valletta on foot; there's a Park & Ride facility just south of Floriana, from where free shuttle buses run to Valletta's City Gate.

Car rental rates in Malta are amongst the lowest in Europe, especially if you use locally owned companies such as Billy's Car Hire on Malta and Mayjo Car Rentals on Gozo. Book ahead on both islands during the busy months of July and August, and select a compact car to negotiate roads that will definitely be more narrow than you're used to.

Cross from Malta to Gozo on the car ferry

Shuttling between the northern Maltese port of Ċirkewwa and Mġarr Harbour on Gozo, Gozo Channel's vehicle and passenger ferry takes around 30 minutes to cross between the two islands. Services run every 45 minutes from 6am to 6pm, and approximately every hour through the night, but the service is sometimes suspended during winter due to storms and rough seas. Leaving Ċirkewwa with a vehicle, you only pay before your return journey coming back from Gozo.

While car rental rates are often cheaper on Gozo, any savings may be offset by the costs of the ferry, so it's worth keeping the same car if you're visiting both islands. Avoid summer weekends when locals travel to holiday in Gozo and queues to board can be long and slow-moving.

Launched in 2021, Gozo Fast Ferry provides a convenient passenger-only ferry linking Mġarr Harbour on Gozo to Valletta. Journeys take 45 minutes and you can take bicycles on board; just book ahead for one of the limited number of bicycle spaces, either on Gozo Fast Ferry's website or via their app. This service is a good option if you're planning on picking up a rental car at Mġarr Harbour or exploring Gozo by bike, e-bike or scooter. A competing service is offered by Virtu Ferries .

Bike shares and electric scooters are good for low-carbon travel

A good option for harborfront exploration around St Julians and Sliema is the Tallinja Bike  bike-sharing scheme, with 11 docking stations on Malta and three on Gozo (locations include ferry terminals and the Valletta Bus Station). Single rides cost €3 (US$3.20), and there's a discount for Tallinja Card holders. A similar service is offered by nextbike , which offers both pedal cycles and e-bikes. For short hops on an electric scooter, download Whizascoot’s app and get riding.

Longer-term bike or scooter rental is handy for more ambitious exploring, especially on Gozo's quieter roads. Along with jeeps, quad bikes and 4WD buggies, scooters, pedal cycles and e-bikes can be rented from Mġarr Tourist Services , conveniently based at Gozo's Mġarr Harbour. Based at the northern Maltese beach resort of Bugibba, Eco Bikes Malta rents out bikes and e-bikes and runs guided bike tours. For a fee, they’ll drop off bikes to wherever you are staying in Malta.

Get walking to explore Malta's historic cities

Malta is a wonderful destination to explore under your own steam, especially the heritage streets of Valletta, Mdina's hilltop walled city, and the astounding Il-Kastell citadel in the Gozitan capital of Victoria. For longer walks, many trails follow the dramatic coastlines of both Malta and Gozo.

Taxis and rideshare services are handy for city exploring

Cabs are useful for city exploring. Conventional taxis can be booked with eCabs , either online, by phone or on their app, while Malta’s leading rideshare operator – also accessible by an app – is Bolt, with good service in built-up areas.

Accessible travel in Malta

All Maltese buses have a low floor to accommodate wheelchairs and are equipped with a wheelchair ramp and step-free entry. Ferries operating on Valletta Ferry Services’ two harbor routes and Gozo Fast Ferry also offer access for wheelchair users.

Note that steep and often stepped streets of Valletta can be difficult to negotiate for travelers with restricted mobility, but key galleries and attractions such as the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo , and the National Museum of Archaeology offer ramps and wheelchair access.

Why I love Valletta’s harbor ferries

Crossing Grand Harbour by ferry is one of world’s greatest urban commutes, leaving behind Valletta’s improbably compact fortified peninsula to approach the towering ramparts of Fort St Angelo and the Three Cities. Tiny dgħajsa water taxis berth next to leviathan super yachts, and narrow laneways arc away from the shelter of Dockyard Creek to reveal the quiet residential backstreets of Birgu.

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• Where to Stay
• Use Public Transport
• Take a Taxi

Public Transport in Malta and Gozo

Are you planning a trip to Malta, and looking for the best way to get around the island? You’ll be happy to hear that Malta has an excellent bus system! Sight-seeing will be easy as 1-2-3 with this handy guide on Malta’s public transport service.

Bus Fares & Cards

Single tickets.

Single tickets are extremely cheap compared to most European countries. A bus ticket will cost you €1.50 in winter, and €2 in summer. The price for a ticket on a night route is €3. Simply give money to the bus driver, who will print out your ticket for you. Don’t forget to keep your ticket after purchase, as they are valid for 2 hours. You will need to present your ticket if you need to transfer to another bus. Furthermore, checks are performed regularly during which every passenger must present their valid ticket.

Tallinja Cards

Not a fan of carrying cash around? Then you might want to buy a Tallinja Card! Malta Public Transport has created three Tallinja Cards specifically for tourists. These are the Explore Card, the ExplorePlus Card and the 12 Single Day Ticket card. You can buy any of these cards at numerous official sales points and third party outlets on the island. You can find a full list on the official Malta Public Transport website. Sales points at Malta Airport: Arrival Hall: Sales & Information office (open from 08:00 to 19:30), WHS Express. Departure Hall: Agenda Book Shop

Explore Card

€21 for Adults, €15 for children

• Valid for 7 days
• €21 for Adults
• €15 for Children up to 10 years old
• Unlimited Traveling for 7 days
• Night routes included

ExplorePlus Card

€39 for everyone

• €21 for everyone
• 2 Trips on the Valletta Ferry
• Full day tour with a hop-on / hop-off bus
• Boat Trip to Comino

12 Single Day Journey Card

• €15 for everyone

• Valid for 1 year
• 12 Single Day Journeys OR
• 6 Single Night Journeys OR
• Combination of both

Plan your journey with the Tallinja App

You can easily plan your trip ahead by using the Malta Public Transport website, the Tallinja App or even Google Maps! You do need an internet connection for these options. Thankfully, Malta is filled with Wifi hotspots where you can connect for free! If you know in advance that you will not be able to connect to 4G or a wifi spot, we recommend you to map out your trip in advance and simply make notes on your phone or screenshot the route. Each bus stop is also provided with a timetable for passing routes.

If you do have internet acces we highly recommend you to download the Tallinja App. It’s available for iOS and Android devices and gives you easy access to numerous features. You can find some examples below:

Journey Planner

Use the Journey Planner to find out everything you need to know. Enter a locality, place of interest, street or road, bus stop name or use your current location to map out your route.

My Next Bus

Already at a bus stop? Check when your next bus is coming. This system uses GPS tracking and will provide you with a real-time view on which route will pass by your bus stop in the next 30 minutes.

Places of Interest

Not sure what you want to do? Check out the Places of Interest listed in the app, and plan your journey to archaeological sites, beaches, diving centres, gardens and more! 

Tip: going around Malta by bus is easy. However, we don’t recommend you to use the public transport system if you’re time restricted. Malta is a small island, with even smaller roads, but counts more cars than people! Delays are inevitable, which can be frustrating and crucial to prevent in certain situations. Need to go to an important meeting or catch a flight? In that case we recommend you to take a taxi .

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Malta by Public Transport: How to Get Around Malta By Bus

Who said you need a car to explore Malta? This guide will show you how to get around Malta by public transport. All for an accident and hassle-free trip!

First of all, if you’re thinking of going to Malta , you’re on to some great holidays. I can completely validate your intentions.

While hanging out near the crystal azure waters is surely rewarding during the hot summer days, Malta is primarily an island of contrasts. It’s filled with an enriched tradition arising from its tangled and rewarding history.

The question is: how to get around this fascinating island?

Malta by public transport or car?

Dirty little secret. Even though I have gone on several road trips in the past in Croatia and Portugal , I can’t drive. I have a driving license, but the driving experience of a sweet potato.

It would have to be some other person traveling with me driving in Malta . But in the end we decided not to rely exclusively on the large network of  buses in Malta .

Obviously, a car can take you to the remote places much easily without any waiting time. A bus will be slower.

However we weren’t in a rush and after reading a ton of travellers complaining about how horrendous was to drive in Malta – poor driving standards and horrible signage were the hot topics – I began to feel uncomfortable with the idea.

And then we came across with this maltese saying:

In the UK they drive on the left. In the US they drive on the right. In Malta we drive on the shade.

Yeaaaahh, how about no? Bus turned out to be a great value-for-money option to get around Malta : cheap, safe and a much more local experience.

Malta by public transport: Getting around by bus

Getting around by bus is straight-forward. It’s usually safe and hassle-free and the island is very well connected. There are roughly 80 routes on the Maltese islands, operating daily between 5:30 and 23:00hrs.

Google Maps was useful to know the routes and even the bus schedule, but you can use the official journey planner . Frequency is generally pretty good on major routes.

In the major routes (e.g. Mellieha – Sliema ) the buses are modern with comfortable seats. However in smaller ones, my favorites, you’ll most likely get a bumpy ride in a mini-van throughout the middle of nowhere. This russian roulette of comfort just added to the experience!

We visited Blue Lagoon, Ghadira Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha, Mdina, Marsaxlokk and Valletta pretty easily, just by using bus.

Malta Bus Ticket Prices

Back in 2014, a 7-day public bus ticket costed only 6,50 euros (!). Prices have changed significantly since then though. The below are the ticket prices from 2016.

• Single ticket (paid to the driver, valid for 2 hours) : 2 euros

Night routes (prefixed N) and express routes (prefixed TD) are more expensive.

• 12-Journey Card (available at a kiosk) : 15 euros

Has to be bought in advance and it can be used by more than one person for the same journey.

• 7-Day Explore Card (available at a kiosk) : 21 euros

Valid in both Malta and Gozo. Express and night buses have no extra cost.

Kiosks are located at Valletta and Bugibba bus stations, Malta International Airport, Sliema Ferries, Mater Dei Hospital, and the the Victoria bus station in Gozo . Some hotels are also starting to sell bus tickets.

Malta Itinerary – Where to go in the island

Malta sits south of Sicilia , right in the heart of the Mediterranean. The main towns are Mellieha , Valletta and Mosta .

To try to see the most of Malta we divided our stay between 2 places. First, a few days in the relaxing and beachy north of Malta , in  Mellieha . Then a few more days in lively urban Sliema in the south.

This was a great option as it allowed to complete our list of places we wanted to see much more efficiently. Find below details of the main bus connections between the main sights in Malta .

The Northern Malta

When you rely on public transportation in Malta , you need to choose smartly where to base yourself to minimize any more time wasted. Make a list of places you want to see on the map and choose a well-located hub to stay.

In the first part of our trip, we stayed in Mellieha . It is very laid-back pace, the ideal place to rest without the hype of tourist crowds. You can enjoy little big things like seeing the stars at night or watching the sunsets while still swimming at the beach.

Still, the best thing about Mellieha is that gives you easy access to several sandy beaches such as Ghadira Bay , Paradise Bay or Armier Bay .

There are also diving spots like Popeye Village (where the original 1980 movie was filmed). Make sure you go to  Ghajn Tuffieha as well. The beach itself is quieter, there are free boat rides to the coast nearby and I was delighted with the views around the bay.

Mellieha is also a short bus trip away from the  Cirkewwa Terminal , where the ferries to Gozo and Comino islands depart.

You can read about my excitement on the crystal clear waters of the Blue Lagoon in Comino. Together with Zlatni Rat beach in Croatia , easily the most amazing water I’ve swimmed on.

While we were based on Mellieha we also explored  Mdina, located in the heart of the island and dating back 4,000 years(!). It is now nicknamed  Silent City and you immediately know why.

Walking its narrow streets and monochromatic alleyways provides a relaxing atmosphere. Very few cars are allowed and there are several silence signs scattered by the city. It makes you dive back into time right after you cross the city walls.

The Phoenicians knew what they were doing when they founded and fortified Mdina . It benefits from being the island’s highest point, far away from the sea which is perfect to ensure protection from the enemies.

Mdina was the capital of Malta until 1530, when the Knights of Malta decided to move it to Vittoriosa , one of the three fortified cities across the Grand Harbour in the capital Valetta.

Where to stay in Northern Malta

Mellieha is your best bet. A little town but next to the main beaches and very well-connected. This is my top place for accommodation:

Or you can start with my shortlist of the top-rated places to stay in Malta, with WiFi included .

The Southern Malta

From the south part of Malta’s exploration, we were based in Sliema in an hotel near-to-awful. No air-conditioning, no wifi, no friendliness, no nothing. One of my biggest fails in online booking accommodation’s history! I’ll not mention names, but make sure you avoid Alborada Apart Hotel !

Moving on. Sliema ,  along with St. Julian’s next door, is the center of the world for both the Maltese and tourists. It’s got the majority of the hotels, the shopping centers, the restaurants, the nightlife and even a place to swim with a very nice view of  Valetta .

Actually, from Sliema you can have the best views from the capital and I can confirm La Valletta is definitely a charm from any angle.

The promenade between Sliema and St. Julians also has some of the best restaurants in the whole island. We decided not to risk tourist traps and went for the inner streets and found one amazingly good. It’s called Trakis and it has the most popular maltese dish, rabbit cooked in garlic and wine, as well as other delicious dishes.

In addition, being only a 10-minute ferry trip away from Valetta , Sliema  also gives you access to the largest bus terminal in the island. It was from there that we hop on the bus 81 to visit  Marsaxlokk .

Marsaxlokk is the main fishing harbour in Malta and it’s base for 70% of the island’s fishing fleet. It is the best place to see the Luzzus , the traditional Maltese fishing boats which all have the mythical eye of Osiris painted on their prows. It is quite a scenery to see such a colorful bay! However, the smell of fish can be quite intense sometimes…

St. Peter’s Pool was nearby so we decided to ask what was the best way to get there. And a nice man offered himself to take us there and picked us up later in the afternoon for a small fee. Next thing we knew we were sitting on the back of a dark van. What it appeared a kidnap situation was still better than a 30-min walk under the hot blazing sun.

Like in the entire island, the sea at St. Peter’s natural pools has an amazing mix of azure and green colors, offering both a swimming bliss and a perfect snorkel opportunity. We did both quite enthusiastically.

It is a bit of a remote place, not so easy to find and there are no facilities of any kind. As a result, there weren’t nearly as many people as in other beaches in Malta .

I adventured myself jumping into the waters from several meters up. Actually it was only 4. But hey as I’m terribly afraid of heights, for me it seemed at least 10!

St. Peter’s Pool is a real treat for people looking for a special spot out of the busy areas. You can experience the beautiful Mediterranean without laying on one of its thousands of tourist-crowded beaches. This is what makes this island unique, I think. And it left me wondering how many more places like this Malta has to offer.

Where to stay in Southern Malta

Malta by public transport: tips.

• Make sure you know the routes and bus schedules of the places you’re going. Use Google Maps or the official Malta Public Transport website.
• Choose wisely the towns you’re staying in. They should be well-connected and close to the sights you want to see. Mellieha (north), Sliema and Valetta (south) are the best options.
• Don’t expect luxury. A bus might very well be a tiny uncomfortable van.

Malta Travel Information

How to get there.

Even though there are ferry boats available, you’ll want to get to Malta by air. Malta Luqa airport is well connected to several european countries, specially Italy, Spain and the U.K.

Where to stay

Valletta or Mellieha are some interesting places to stay in the island. Avoid St Julians or Sliema unless you’re in Malta just for the booze.

I’ve pre-selected the best hotels in Malta island for you to start your search. These are well-located, with WiFi and with good-to-excellent reviews, can’t go wrong!

Do not miss

Mdina , the Silent City. The Blue Lagoon , despite the crowds and some jellyfish. And the views from the Grand Harbour from the Upper Barakka Gardens .

What to eat

Pastizzi . These palm-size layers of crispy pastry filled with either ricotta cheese (the best ones) or pea (funny taste) are cheap street food and a very tasty snack!

Useful Malta websites

• Malta Public Transport : official website of tourism transportation in Malta
• Malta By Bus : independent website with up-to-date information about buses in the island
• Visit Malta : official tourism board of Malta

Did you visit Malta by public transport? What were your best experiences there?

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Getting to Malta and getting around

Arrival at malta international airport (mla).

Malta International Airport is the only airport in Malta. Therefore, it serves as the main national hub for air travel with many airlines such as AirMalta operating flights there. The airport is located in the town of Luqa, about 8km from the capital city Valletta .

As soon as you arrive at the airport, you can reach Valetta by hopping onto a Route X4 bus. They depart every 30 minutes and the journey takes about 25 minutes.

Using the Malta public transport system

Malta has a reliable public transport system consisting of buses that cover most parts of the island. Malta Public Transport operates daily between 05:30 AM and 11:00 PM. A night service also runs on Friday and Saturday as well as on public holidays and feast days. The main bus terminal is located near the City Gate of Valletta. Other significant bus hubs include the airport, Buġibba, Ċirkewwa (Gozo ferry terminal), and Victoria (the largest town on Gozo island).

A daytime bus ticket costs €2 and a night-time bus ticket costs €3. You can buy these ‘ Single Journey tickets ‘ directly from the bus driver on all buses with cash. They are valid for two hours of travel, including transfers. To follow the itinerary, it will be more cost-effective to purchase a ‘Tallinja card’ , a Malta public transport chip card. In short, there are two types of Tallinja cards recommended for tourists:

• ‘Explore Card’ : offering unlimited bus travel for 7 days for 21€ (adult) or 15€ (child)
• ’12 Journeys Card’ : usable for 12 single journeys on day services or 6 single journeys on night services, or a combination of both

You can get them at any Malta Public Transport sales point ( listed here ) or from third-party retailers ( listed here ). However, the most practical way to buy one is in the arrivals hall at Malta International Airport ( open from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM daily ).

🌐  Find more information on Malta Public Transport’s official website to plan your visit.

In order to make your journeys easier, I highly recommend downloading the Tallinja app on an Android phone or iPhone . I found the most reliable and up-to-date information on routes and timetables there.

In Malta, driving is on the left side of the road.

The best places to see in Malta: 3 to 5 days itinerary

Valletta is an ideal base for those who intend to explore Malta . Indeed, it serves as the main departure point for the majority of bus routes . Therefore, if you have no intention of renting a car, staying in the capital would be the most suitable option.

💡 Tip: The proposed itinerary is flexible and adjustable to your needs. Each day’s starting point is Valletta, so you can interchange any given day with another.

Day 1: Discover Valletta and the Three Cities

Being the capital of the country, Valletta – coupled with the nearby ‘Three Cities’ – is a perfect place to begin your trip. They will offer a fascinating glimpse into Malta’s past and present right from the start.

Wander the Streets of Valletta

Wandering in Valletta’s charming old streets is an attraction in itself. As soon as you pass the City Gate, the historic center reveals itself, with its typical colorful balconies and sandstone buildings . Pleasantly, Valletta is a very walkable for a European capital city. It only takes about 20 minutes to walk from the City Gate to the edge of the peninsula.

Firstly, begin your walk down Republic Street, which is Valletta’s main street, all the way to Republic Square. As you walk, you may notice the perpendicular streets falling away on either side towards the harbours. If you keep walking, you will soon reach the main square, St George’s Square, or Fort St Elmo if you go even further.

Fort St Elmo

Built in the 16th century, the St Elmo fortress played a crucial role in Malta’s military history . Indeed, it was the site of the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. During this event, the Knights of St John successfully defended the island against an invading Ottoman army. Today, visitors can explore the fortress, which houses the National War Museum. Visitors can also climb to the top of the fort’s ramparts to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Fort St Elmo is an essential stop for anyone interested in Malta’s history. To this day, it remains an enduring symbol of Malta’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

🎟️ The entrance fee for Fort St Elmo And National War Museum is 10€ for adults, 7.5€ for students, youths (12-17) and seniors, 5.5€ for children (6-11) and free for infants under 5.

🕒 Fort St Elmo And National War Museum are open for visits every day (except on Tuesday) from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

🌐 Find more information on Fort St Elmo And National War Museum’s official website to plan your visit.

The Knights of Saint John, also known as the Knights Hospitaller, were a medieval Catholic military order that established their base in Malta in the 16th century and played a significant role in the island's history, defending it against Ottoman invasions and governing it until the French occupation in 1798.

Wuestenwinds Beach

Following the St Elmo Fort visit, I highly recommend passing by Wuestenwinds beach , which is only 2 minutes away. This hidden photogenic spot is one of my favourite place in Valletta. Despite the name, it is not a beach, but rather a small rocky area. There are some ladders to get into the water here and there, but I wouldn’t recommend swimming here. That being said, this place delivers an unbeatable view over the Siege Bell War Memorial Monument, coupled with numerous fishermen-style shacks , which makes it all uniquely picturesque. As a bonus, this spot is still under-the-radar, so you may have this beautiful place for yourself or almost.

Starting from there, you can make a little detour and follow the path to Elmo bridge . This walk will give you another perspective of Elmo Fort and Valletta Harbours. But if you go there, please be aware the path is rocky and uneven. I recommend avoiding it in case of bad weather, due to the risks of slipping and crashing waves.

Lower and Upper Barrakka Gardens

The Barrakka Gardens are some of the most popular in Valletta for tourists and locals alike. These are both gorgeous public gardens , offering outstanding vantage points to observe the Grand Harbour and the ‘Three Cities’ .

The Lower Barrakka Gardens is only a 5-minute walk away from Wuestenwinds beach. Once you arrive, stroll through the garden’s photogenic pathways, admire the fountains, flower beds, sculptures, and even a neoclassical temple. This garden is way less visited than its upper brother, which makes it a serene place all the more.

Afterwards, walk 10 more minutes along the city walls, and you will arrive at the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Also built by the Knights of St John, this spot is without doubt one of the main attractions in Valletta. Visitors can enjoy this beautiful garden and its outstanding panoramic views over the harbour and the ‘Three Cities ‘ . It also hosts the Saluting Battery, which was originally used to fire salutes to welcome visiting naval vessels. Nowadays, visitors can witness the daily cannon firing ceremony that takes place at noon and 4 PM.

🎟️ Both Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens are free to enter.

🕒 Upper Barrakka Gardens are open every day from 7 AM to 10 PM; Lower Barrakka Gardens are open every day from 8 AM to 9 PM.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral

Following the Barrakka Gardens, make your way to St John’s Co-Cathedral, a stunning baroque-style cathedral . It is one of the most impressive religious buildings in Malta and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, art, or architecture. Its ornate interior features a vast array of paintings, sculptures, and frescoes, including works by famous artists such as Caravaggio. Another striking feature of this place is its intricate marble floor. The cathedral also houses the tombs of over 400 Knights of St John, adding to its historical significance.

🎟️ The entrance fee for St John’s Co-Cathedral is 15€ for adults, 12€ for students and seniors, and free for children under 12 of age (when accompanied by an adult).

🕒 St John’s Co-Cathedral is open for visits from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM; touristic visits are not allowed on Sundays. Ecclesiastical Services take place from Monday to Saturday at 8:30 AM (+ 5:45 PM on Saturday), and on Sunday at 7:45 AM / 9:15 AM / 11:30 AM / 5:45 PM.

🌐 Find more information on St John’s Co-Cathedral ‘s official website to plan your visit.

Hastings Garden

Before moving out of Valletta, don’t hesitate to have a look at the peaceful public Hastings Garden . This is a quiet oasis, in case you need a quiet break from the bustling Republic Street. This location is located on top of St. John’s and St. Michael’s bastions, right next to Valletta’s City Gate. It is named after Francis – Marquis of Hastings – who was a governor of Malta. The panoramic views from this garden are stunning. From there, you can observe the City Gate, Triton Fountain and Floriana neighbourhood from above, as well as Sliema town and Manoel Island.

Three Cities

To conclude this first day in Malta, let’s head out of Valletta. The Three Cities in Malta are a group of fortified cities located on the eastern side of the Grand Harbour . They consist of Vittoriosa (Birgu), Senglea (Isla), and Cospicua (Bormla). The simplest – and most pleasant – way to get there from Valletta is to take a ferry. Conveniently, there are departures every 30 minutes. First, take the panoramic lift from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Then, simply cross the street to reach the pier. Once on the ferry, it will only take a few minutes to reach the drop-off in Cospicua. From there, you can easily explore the other two cities on foot: stroll along narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming waterfronts of these picturesque cities.

🎟️  Adult day return tickets for a ferry ride from Valletta to Cospicua and back costs 2.80€ (3.30€ during the night); children return tickets cost 0.90€. Departures are every 30 minutes. Find more information on Valletta Ferry Services’ official website to plan your visit.

Day 2: Marvels of the Maltese South Coast and Mdina

On your second day in Malta, you’ll immerse yourself in the island’s most beautiful landscapes and fascinating history. First, start your day at the magnificient Blue Grotto to observe its vibrant colours when they are at their prime. After this, marvel at the awe-inspiring Megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim, wander through the ancient, fortified city of Mdina, and visit the hauntingly beautiful Catacombs of Rabat.

Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto is one of Malta’s most popular natural attractions and is located on the southern coast of the island. On sunny days, the sunlight reflects off the sandy seafloor and illuminates the rock formation in striking shades of blue, hence its name. In such conditions, the sea cave creates a breathtaking atmosphere that sure leaves a lasting impression. The magnificence of the main arch standing at about 30 meters is truly remarkable.

In fact, to be precise, the Blue Grotto is a complex of seven caves. Count the grand primary arch – of course – plus a network of six other caves visible by boat tour.

You can observe the Blue Grotto from a dedicated viewpoint . From there, you will view the stunning surrounding area, including the jagged cliffs, turquoise sea, and neighboring islets. The ideal timing to see the Blue Grotto is before mid-morning until noon . At this time, the sunlight penetrates the cave directly, brightening up the blue water inside. You can also go inside the cave with boat tours departing nearby from the quaint fishing harbor called Wied iż-Żurrieq.

🎟️ Access to the Blue Grotto viewpoint is free. Boat tours cost 8€ per adult, 4€ per child (cash advised), and last 20 minutes. Contact Blue Grotto Boat Service beforehand to ensure the tours are running.

🚌  The bus journey from Valletta to Blue Grotto takes approximately 45 minutes; there is one hourly departure. The best bus route is n°74, direction ‘Zurrieq’. Stop at ‘Panorama’.

After admiring this unique piece of landscape, it is time to head to your next spot: the ancient temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra. Buses being infrequent around this part of the island, the quickest way to get there is to walk 1.5km (approximately 20 minutes).

Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples

The Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples are two of the most impressive megalithic temples in Malta, dating back over 5000 years . They are some of the oldest standing structures in the world, predating Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza. The intricate stonework and fascinating history of these ancient temples make them a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or archaeology.

🎟️ The entrance fee for Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Archaeological Park is 10€ for adults, 7.5€ for students and youths (12-17), 5.5€ for children (6-11) and free for infants under 5.

🕒 Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Archaeological Park is open for visits every day (except on Tuesday) from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

🌐 Find more information on Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Archaeological Park’s official website to plan your visit.

Hike around the neolithic complex

The surroundings of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples are well worth a detour if time and weather allow. These paths are accessible to anyone , even to those who don’t visit the archaeological complex. Even though the hike is small, the ground is rocky, uneven, and steep at some points. So, I advise wearing sensible footwear. But if you make the effort, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views only a fraction of tourists gets to see.

You will first come across the Tal-Ħamrija Coastal Tower . This watchtower was built in 1659 by the Order of Saint John. After portions of its external revetments crumbled, the tower underwent restoration and reconstruction work recently. If you walk further, you will soon be able to view the Għar Ħanex window , which is a natural stone arch. The contrast between the powerful waves crashing and the rocks staying still is mesmerizing. From there, you may also notice the afar Filfla islet which just adds character to this unique scenery.

After enjoying the view – and probably snapping some pictures – head back to the Ħaġar Qim visitor center and wait for the bus to get you to Mdina town.

🚌 The bus journey from Ħaġar Qim to Mdina takes approximately 50 minutes; there is one hourly departure, so be mindful of the time when you visit the temples and their surroundings. From ‘Hagar’ bus stop, take route n°201 direction ‘Rabat’ and stop at ‘Saqqaja’.

Mdina, the Silent City

Mdina is an old fortified city that used to be the capital until the Knights of Malta arrived in 1530. Also known as the ‘Silent City’ , due to its peaceful and quiet atmosphere, Mdina is a truly unique spot. In addition to the impressive Gate of Mdina, the city is adorned with medieval and baroque style historic buildings along its streets , making it a treat to stroll through the city’s alleys. Plus, its location atop a hill affords spectacular views of the island.

The difference between the hustle of some areas in Malta and the quietness within Mdina’s city walls is striking. This contrast only enhances the enchanting atmosphere and the breathtaking vistas that Mdina offers. To fully appreciate the charm of Mdina, I recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Thus, you will have the most chances to avoid crowds.

Rabat is a town located just outside the walls of Mdina, on the other side of Howard Gardens. It is home to St. Paul’s Catacombs , which are believed to be some of the earliest Christian burial grounds in Malta. Visitors can also explore the 17th-century Wignacourt Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and historical artifacts. Rabat is a great place to see traditional Maltese architecture and taste local cuisine in quaint cafes and restaurants.

🚌 After such a busy day, it will be time to head back to Valletta. The bus journey from Valletta to Mdina takes approximately 50 minutes. The most frequent routes are n°50, 51, 52, 53, 56.

Day 3: Gems of the East Maltese coast

For the third day of this Malta itinerary, get ready for another day mixing natural beauty and ancient history! To sum up, you will explore the ancient ruins of the Temples of Tarxien, marvel at the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk, and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of St. Peter’s Pool.

Tarxien Temples

Tarxien Temples complex is believed to have been constructed between 3600 and 2500 BC. It is without doubt a fascinating example of the megalithic architecture that characterizes prehistoric Malta. The complex consists of four separate structures that were likely used for religious purposes. Today, visitors can wander through the ruins, marvel at the intricately carved stone blocks, and look at the mysterious symbols that adorn the walls.

🎟️ The entrance fee for Ħal Tarxien Prehistoric Complex is 6€ for adults, 4.5€ for students and youths (12-17), 3€ for children (6-11) and free for infants under 5.

🕒 Ħal Tarxien Prehistoric Complex is open for visits every day (except on Tuesday) from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

🌐 Find more information on Ħal Tarxien Prehistoric Complex’s official website to plan your visit.

🚌 The bus journey from Valletta to Tarxien takes approximately 25 minutes. The most frequent routes are n°81, 82, 84, 85, 88. Stop at ‘Neolitici’.

Marsaxlokk village

Marsaxlokk is a charming fishing village located on the southern coast of Malta. The village is famous for its traditional colorful fishing boats called luzzus , which are painted in bright colors and adorned with the Eye of Osiris, a symbol believed to protect fishermen from harm. Strolling along the promenade, you can see the luzzus bobbing gently in the water, which make a truly picturesque sight.

🚌 The bus journey from Tarxien to Marsaxlokk takes approximately 25 minutes. From ‘Neolitici’ bus stop, take route n°81 or n°85 direction ‘Marsaxlokk’.

In addition to its fishing boats, Marsaxlokk is also famous for its large and vibrant Sunday fish market . Don’t worry if seafood is not your thing though. Other local products are for sale, such as olives, tomatoes, and crafts. The market is a great place to mingle with locals and soak up the lively atmosphere.

St Peter’s Pool

St. Peter’s Pool is a stunning natural swimming pool located in the southern part of Malta. This spot is very popular among locals and tourists alike for swimming, sunbathing, and cliff jumping . The crystal clear turquoise waters of the pool are surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. Access to the sea is facilitated by stairs carved into the rocks or ladders that are placed during the summer. For the more daring, diving is the way to go. You can jump from a height of 2 to 5 meters safely due to the depth of the water.

Unfortunately, there is no bus stop close to St Peter’s Pool. So, to get to St. Peter’s Pool from Marsaxlokk by land, you will have to hike for 30 minutes. Be aware that some parts of the walk are on the road, so you will be exposed to eventual traffic. You will also be very exposed to the sun, so take that into consideration if you plan to visit on a hot summer day. Upon arriving at St. Peter’s Pool parking, visitors must go down a steep and rocky path to reach the spot. But the stunning views and refreshing waters make it well worth the effort.

Another way to get to St Peter’s Pool is by boat. I didn’t personnally try it but from Marsaxlokk, visitors can embark on a short cruise to St. Peter’s Pool if weather permits. If you head to the harbour, there should be various companies offering boat trips, such as Charlie’s Boat Trips , which offers a 1-hour tour to a couple of swimming spots including St. Peter’s Pool for 10€.

Once you are in St Peter’s Pool, don’t hesitate to explore further than the natural pool and reach the nearby area of Il-Qali . I would personally call it “The hidden side of St Peter’s Pool” because only few visitors explore this area. The landscape there is like no other, consisting of a mix of dozens of unused salt pools close to dramatic-looking cliffs .

If you came to St Peter’s pool by foot, the most obvious way only way to go back to Marsaxlokk is to hike back. During high season, there might be some taxis at the parking offering rides to Marsaxlokk. Either way, once you are in Marsaxlokk, take the bus route n°81 from the ‘Cippi’ stop to return to Valletta. There are departures every 20 minutes and the journey takes approximately 45 minutes.

Day 4: Swim in Comino island and Malta’s most beautiful beaches

Comino is a small island between Malta and Gozo, famous for its stunning crystal-clear waters and the Blue Lagoon . The island is only 3.5 square kilometers and is largely uninhabited, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. The main activities in Comino involve swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation on its beaches. Also, the whole island is a nature reserve, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers.

Getting to Comino island

The cheapest way to get to Comino is by taking a ferry from Cirkewwa, the main port in Malta . This is the same port from where ferries to Gozo island depart. Several operators provide round-trip service from Cirkewwa to the Blue Lagoon daily.

🚌 The first step is to reach Cirkewwa port from Valletta. Take the bus route n°41 or n°42 direction ‘Cirkewwa’. The journey takes approximately 1h30. Then, book a boat trip to Comino from one of the operators. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.

🎟️ Count between 10 and 15€ per adult for a daily return ticket between Cirkewwa and Comino, depending on the company.

🕒 Schedules vary depending on the operator, the season, and weather conditions. 

Another option is to book a boat-tour departing from Buġibba or Sliema . It comes with less flexibility but more comfort. While it lets you skip the long bus journey to Cirkewwa port, you will also arrive at the Blue Lagoon during peak times. Here is a selection of tour options:

• Boat cruise from Sliema to Comino’s Blue Lagoon : departs from Sliema at 10:30 AM; duration 8 hours; 21€ per adult.
• Hop-on / Hop-off cruise to Comino’s Blue Lagoon : departs from Sliema or Buġibba; 30€ per adult.
• Sea Adventures Excursion Blue and Crystal Lagoons : departs from Buġibba at 9:00 AM during peak season and 10:30 AM during the off-season. The duration of the tour is 7 hours in summer and 6 hours in winter; 30€ per adult.

Comino is named after the flowering plant Cumin, which grows plentifully on the island.

Swim in the Blue Lagoon

Malta’s Blue Lagoon is a protected bay located between the small islands of Comino and Cominotto. It has a shallow, sandy bottom which results in one of the clearest waters and most beautiful beaches in Malta .

Being so beautiful – and so compact – this place can get crammed during peak season. However, that doesn’t mean the Blue Lagoon is a tourist trap or somewhere to avoid, as long as you plan carefully. In July and August, the place will be crowded from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. At this time, consider going early in the morning (and by that I mean, before 9 AM) or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a beautiful sunset view.

Other sights in Comino

Although stunning, there’s more to Comino than the Blue Lagoon! Without a doubt, one could spend an entire day in Comino hiking, swimming, picnicking, or simply relaxing . I encourage this, especially if you have more than 5 days to spend in Malta! Besides the Blue Lagoon, I also recommend seeing Santa Marija Bay and the Crystal Lagoon:

• Santa Marija Bay is located on the Northside of Comino and is considered the second-best beach on the island. It is an ideal place for picnics and swimming just a 20-min hike from the Blue Lagoon. From there, it is possible to reach Santa Marija Caves from a tunnel. The blue waters of these caves are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.
• While the Blue Lagoon is the go-to spot for all Comino visitors, relatively few are aware of the Crystal Lagoon . It is a lesser-known lagoon located a bit further South and mainly accessible by boat. It is a beautiful spot for swimming, diving, and snorkeling, likewise popular Blue Lagoon, albeit mostly rocky and not as bright blue (but more peaceful!).

Please note that some tour operators propose day excursions mixing a half-day in Comino and a few hours in Gozo. While it is tempting, I think only one afternoon doesn’t do justice to Gozo. However, if you are willing to spend only one morning in Comino, I have some suggestions on how to spend the afternoon. The following half-day itinerary will take you back to the main island and cover the main sights of the north-western coast, relatively close to Cirkewwa.

Popeye Village

Popeye Village, located in Mellieha, is a unique theme park that was once the film set for the 1980 musical movie “ Popeye ” . It has since been transformed into a fun-filled theme park, with many rides, shows, and activities. Visitors of all ages can explore the colorful buildings and movie sets, watch live performances, and participate in many activities.

Even if you don’t visit the park, you can access the Popeye Village viewpoint , which offers unmatched panoramic views of the surrounding bay and village . Whether you’re a movie enthusiast or just looking for a unique and memorable experience, it is definitely worth a visit.

🚌 The bus journey from Cirkewwa to Popeye Village takes approximately 15 minutes; there is one hourly departure. From ‘Cirkewwa 1’ bus stop, take route n°101 direction ‘Mgarr’ and stop at ‘Popeye’. Then, walk 3 minutes to reach the Popeye Village.

🎟️ Access to Popeye Village viewpoint is free. The entrance fee from November to May costs 14€ per adult or teen and 9€ per child (3-12). From June to October, the price is 20€ per adult or teen and 15€ per child (3-12).

🕒 Popeye Village park times vary depending on the season. Find more information on Popeye Village’s official website to plan your visit.

Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa

Golden Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in Malta, located in the northwestern part of the island. Its golden sands and clear blue waters make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The beach is surrounded by stunning cliffs , and visitors can enjoy various water sports and activities or simply relax and soak up the sun.

From there, you can also reach Għajn Tuffieħa , a beautiful sandy bay only 20 minutes away. It’s surrounded by stunning cliffs and a natural reserve area , which makes it perfect for nature lovers. The beach is accessible by a steep path, but the breathtaking views and clear blue waters are worth the effort. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in a more secluded and peaceful environment than some of Malta’s busier beaches.

🚌  The bus journey from Popeye Village to Golden Bay takes approximately 25 minutes; there is one hourly departure. From ‘Popeye’ bus stop, take route n°101 direction ‘Mgarr’ and stop at ‘Tuffieha’. If you would rather go to Għajn Tuffieħa bay first, take the same route but leave the bus one stop later, at ‘Riviera’.

After a day of swimming and adventuring, it will be time to go back to Valletta. In order to do so, take the bus route n°44 direction Valletta. There are departures every 30 minutes and the journey takes approximately 1 hour.

Day 5: Explore Gozo

On the fifth day of your itinerary to Malta, it’s time to visit the charming island of Gozo , just a short ferry ride away from the main island. Gozo is a quiet and peaceful place, with a slower pace of life than its larger neighbor. In other words, get ready to discover the island’s unique charm and natural beauty! This suggested itinerary provides a glimpse of some of the best sights of Gozo’s Northern coast.

Before diving into the itinerary suggestion, let me be brutally honest. While Gozo may be a small island, there are countless sights to see and activities to do, making it difficult to fit everything into just one day , particularly when relying on public transportation. To make the most out of your day, here are some tips:

• My top advice – and not the easiest to follow – is to wake up as early as possible . The idea is to catch one of the earliest ferries available to enjoy a full day in Gozo.
• Secondly, I recommend allocating a couple of hours to discover Victoria – the main town – then pick one to three spots along the coast to appreciate Gozo’s stunning scenery. More might be hard to fit in, especially during winter when the days are shorter.
• Most local buses route depart from and finish in Victoria, which is located in the middle of the island. As a result, it is almost impossible to take a bus from one coastal spot to another without transiting through Victoria, and that goes with bus waiting and route switching. So, to make the most out of your day, be prepared for a lot of walking instead!

💡 Note: Alternatively, several companies propose hourly or daily quad rentals in Gozo. Renting a quad bike is a popular way to explore the scenic roads and rugged terrain of the island. I did not personally try but it seems like a fun and adventurous way to discover the island’s hidden gems with minimal effort. Gozo Quad Rental is conveniently located just outside the Ferry terminal, has excellent reviews, and proposes a 7-hour long quad bike rental for 70€. You can also opt for one of the many full-day guided tours, but that goes out of the scope of this article.

Getting to Gozo island

The journey to Gozo island and Comino island from Valletta are similar in many ways. For the cheapest (but longest) option, you will have to reach Cirkewwa port first and get a ferry from there. Operated by the Gozo Channel Line, the ferry sails from Ċirkewwa, located in the northern part of Malta, to Mġarr, a small harbor situated on the southeast coast of Gozo . The journey lasts approximately 25 minutes each way.

🚌 Similarly to a journey to Comino, the first step is to reach Cirkewwa port from Valletta. Take the bus route n°41 or n°42 direction ‘Cirkewwa’. The journey takes approximately 1h30.

🎟️ The standard passenger fare is 4.65€ per adult for a return trip and 1.65€ for children (3-12). Please note you don’t need to collect any ticket when you board in Cirkewwa. The fare for the trip is paid on your return at the Mġarr port.

🕒 Find all the departure schedules on Gozo Channel’s website to plan your visit.

If you want to skip the long bus ride to and from Cirkewwa port, some companies propose fast boat transfers to Gozo directly from Valletta. So, if you don’t mind paying a bit extra, it seems like a great option to save some time:

• Virtu Ferries Gozo : departs from Valletta and arrives in Mġarr . The one-way fare is 7.5€ per adult, 4.5€ for students, and 3.0€ for children aged 4-10.
• Gozo Fast Ferry : proposes the same service for similar prices.

Victoria – also named Rabat – is the capital city of Gozo and it’s a great place to start exploring the island. Here, you can find the stunning Citadel , which is a must-visit attraction in Gozo. Perched on top of a hill, this fortified city offers panoramic views of the island. Inside the Citadel, you can explore the narrow streets and alleys, visit the Cathedral of the Assumption, the Museum of Archaeology, and the Old Prison.

🎟️   Entry to the citadel grounds is free. However, there’s an entrance fee if you want to visit the Cittadella’s Visitor Center. It costs 5€ for adults, 3.5€ for students, and 2.5€ for children (6-11). This ticket also entitles visitors to visit the Gozo Archaeology Museum, the Nature Museum, the Old Prisons and the Gran Castello Historic House.

🕒 Victoria’s Cittadella Visitor Center is open for visits every day from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (opening at 10:00 AM on Saturday).

🌐 Find more information on Cittadella’s official website to plan your visit.

Besides the Citadel, there are many other things to see and do in Victoria. For example, you can wander through the charming streets of the old town and admire the beautiful traditional Maltese houses with their wooden balconies and colorful doors. There are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to visit as well. Another idea is to join the market in the center of town to find fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Overall, Victoria is a great place to spend a few hours before heading out to other parts of the island.

🚌 The bus journey from Mġarr to Victoria takes approximately 30 minutes. From Mġarr, walk 5 minutes to the bus stop ‘Vapur’. Then, take the bus route n°301 direction ‘Victoria’.

Wied il-Għasri

Wied il-Għasri is a little gem on the island of Gozo, and one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Malta. This deep and narrow gorge leads down to a secluded pebble beach with crystal clear turquoise waters, surrounded by stunning high cliffs. The walk down is a bit steep but short and safe, through dedicated stairs. On a calm day, getting there is a superb opportunity to take a dip in the refreshing Mediterranean sea. On the other hand, on windy days, the waves rush and crush against the steady rocks, which makes a powerful scenery.

🚌  Unfortunately, there is no bus stop next to Wied il-Għasri. To get closer, take the bus route n°309 direction ‘Victoria’ from the stop ‘Repubblika’ to ‘Onici’. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. After you stop at Onici, there’s a 20-minute walk to reach Wied il-Għasri.

Xwejni Salt pans

Xwejni Salt Pans are a unique attraction on the island of Gozo. They offer a glimpse into the traditional salt-making process that has been practiced for centuries in Malta. The pans are still in use today, and visitors can witness the fascinating process of salt crystallization in the shallow pools , as well as purchase some of the famous Maltese sea salt as a souvenir. The salt pans are also surrounded by stunning views of the Mediterranean sea and the rugged coastline.

🚌 Xwejni bay is only a 30-minute walk from Wied il-Għasri. Anyway, if you want to skip this previous spot, know there’s a direct bus route. From ‘Repubblika’ bus stop in Victoria, you can take the bus route n°310 (direction ‘Victoria’) and stop at ‘Xwejni”. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes.

Lunch in Marsalforn

Marsalforn is a popular seaside town located on the north coast of Gozo, only a 20-minute walk away from the Xwejni salt pans. It is known for its picturesque harbor, which is lined with colorful fishing boats, restaurants, and cafes. Consequently, it is a perfect location to relax and enjoy a well-deserved lunch.

Ramla Beach and Tal-Mixta Cave

Following this good lunch break, it is time to head to the final spot of the day: Ramla Beach. It is located a 1-hour walk away (or a 30-minute bus ride, if you manage to catch one). Ramla Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Gozo , known for its soft, reddish-golden sand. The sandy beach is surrounded by rich orange-red sand dunes and rocky cliffs , providing a stunning contrast to the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

🚌 The bus journey from Marsalforn to Ramla Bay takes approximately 30 minutes but departures are rare. From ‘Marsalforn’ bus stop, take route n°322 direction ‘Vapur’ and stop at ‘Ramla’. Then, walk 10 minutes to reach the shore.

The nearby Tal-Mixta cave is an added bonus. You can access it by a short (but steep) hike up the cliff on the east side of the beach. The cave offers a stunning panoramic view of the bay.

After so much sightseeing, it is time to head back to Mġarr harbour and catch a ferry back to Malta island. Depending on the schedule, there are two routes you can take from Ramla. The first option is to take the bus route n°322 direction ‘Vapur’ and stop at ‘ Antnin’. Or else, take the bus route n°302 to Victoria, and then change bus to get to Mġarr.

Ideas to add to this Malta itinerary

In case you are lucky enough to stay longer than 5 days in Malta, here are some suggestions on things to do:

• Extend your visit of Gozo: as previously mentionned, Gozo is no shy of sights to see and activities to do. If you want extend your adventures there, check out this article about the 20 best things to do on Gozo island, Malta .
• Join an ethical marine-wildlife tour: Malta’s waters are renowned for their diverse range of marine life, including several species of dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and colorful fish. EcoMarine proposes an 8-hour Marine Life Spotting Tour which will give you the best chances to see dolphins and turtles in their natural habitat.
• Do more sight-seeing on the main island: As you definitely know by now, Malta offers a plethora of unique and fascinating experiences for tourists. Some spots I couldn’t include in this Malta itinerary are Casa Rocca Piccola, a 16th-century palace in Valletta, and the Mosta Rotunda, a stunning neoclassical church with a massive dome that is one of the largest in Europe. For outdoors-lovers, you can check out the Dingli cliffs, or Victoria lines, a series of fortifications.
• Overall, just take your time: I am conscious this 3 to 5-day Malta itinerary is pretty fast-paced. But Malta is a perfect location to simply slow down, relax on a beach, or chill at the terrace of a café.

The best places to stay during your Malta itinerary

Malta offers plenty of accommodations to stay at. To follow this Malta itinerary by public transport, Valletta is an excellent choice, albeit with relatively higher prices than the rest of the island. Find below two recommendations for budget travelers. Their capacity is (very) limited, so I recommend booking as soon as possible.

🛏️  Check more available hotels in Valletta .

On the other hand, if you’re on a budget and looking for easier-to-find affordable options, Sliema and St Julian’s are great alternatives. It boasts plenty of shopping opportunities and easy access to Valletta via a ferry, which takes only 15 minutes. Unlike Valletta, these two towns also have many good rock beaches to relax.

🛏️  Check more available hotels in Sliema .

Vegan-Friendly restaurants for your Malta itinerary

Although Malta has become more and more vegan-friendly in the recent years, finding proper options can still be a challenge, especially outside of Valletta. I’ve compiled a complete Malta vegan guide with many information including restaurant’s menus sum-ups, opening hours and price ranges. In short, below is a summary of my favourite suggestions:

• Gujar Hangout: a bar with a lively atmosphere, offering vegan ftira sandwiches.
• DeBono Coffee shop: a small business ran by a Polish couple, with a superb cake selection.
• Caffè Bery: the perfect place to go for a quick breakfast. It serves plenty of hot drink options and proposes several vegan treats such as tarts, sandwiches, and toasts. You can check Caffè Berry’s menu and opening times here .
• Alive Bistro: one of the few vegetarian restaurants in Gozo, perfect for a lunch stop in Marsalforn. It offers a selection of burgers, wraps, sandwiches, and sweet treats.

Budget for this Malta itinerary

Overall, Malta is a budget-friendly vacation destination offering affordable transportation via buses and ferries and many free natural attractions . On the other hand, accommodation will much probably be your largest expense. If you follow this Malta itinerary, here is a sum-up of your main expenses:

• Transportation: 40-55€ per week ('Explore' bus card + return trip to the Three Cities + return tickets ferries for the day-trips to Comino and Gozo)
• Accommodation: 25-40€ per night in a hostel; 80€ and onwards per night in a hotel
• Food: 10-30€ per meal
• Attractions: ~70€ if you do all the priced suggested Valletta activities + visits of temples (Ħaġar Qim-Mnajdra and Tarxien) + Blue Grotto boat tour + Popeye village attraction park + visit of the Citadella Visitor Center in Gozo

I hope this 3-5 day Malta itinerary has been helpful and informative!

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Tallinja - Plan your bus trip 4+

Malta public transport.

• 3,4 • 132 Bewertungen

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Beschreibung.

Download the Tallinja App to upgrade your experience of the public transport service in Malta. Welcome to the Tallinja App. With the Tallinja App, you will enjoy all the benefits of Malta Public Transport by travelling more affordably and sustainably. The Tallinja App has many functions that will make your day-to-day journeys easier while combining all transport services offered by Malta Public Transport: Real-time information: Locate your nearest bus stop on the map and check all available bus routes to your chosen destination. Real-time information can be accessed by tapping on your nearest bus stop. Real-time bus tracking: Follow your bus in real-time while you are waiting at the bus stop. Once you tap on your nearest bus stop, choose “Show buses on the map in real-time” to locate on the map the bus you are waiting for. My Cards: In this section, you can add, manage, and keep track of several payment methods. Additionally, you can connect your personalised Tallinja Card or Flex Card with the Tallinja App. This will enable you to view your transaction history, pay for any Tallinja On Demand bookings, and check for any new travel offers. The Journey Planner: Plan your bus trips by choosing your departure location and your destination. The journey planner will suggest various bus routes for you to choose from. On Demand: Tallinja On Demand is a public transport on-demand service. In this section, you can book a seat on one of our premium buses. Simply choose from which bus stop you would like to be picked up and from which bus stop you would like to be dropped off. Airport Shuttle: Malta Transfer is an official shuttle service of Malta International Airport. You can book your transport from the airport to various hotels in Malta and back through the Tallinja App. Malta Transfer extends its services to the cruise liner terminal in Valletta. Favourites: Create your favourites list by clicking on the heart icon on the map view, including your most visited destinations or the bus stops or bus routes you use regularly. Service Update: Check the map for caution signs that indicate alerts or service disruptions. Simply click on the alert tag to access detailed information about the service update. This feature ensures that you are aware of any changes that may affect your journey. Also, you can receive push notifications on service alerts happening on your saved favourite routes and bus stops. This way, you can plan your trips more effectively and stay up-to-date with any disruptions on your preferred routes. Do you have any questions? Feel free to contact our customer care through email at [email protected] or by sending a private message on the Tallinja Facebook page. The Tallinja App is powered by Meep (www.meep.app).

Version 3.0.46

We say bye to small bugs and welcome and improved and user-friendly version for you to move better than ever. Update the app!

Bewertungen und Rezensionen

132 Bewertungen

Registration geht nicht/Fahrplanauskunft unzuverlässig

Die Registration mit Deutscher Mobilfunknummer funzte nicht: SMS für Verifizierung kam nie an. Die Fahrplanauskunft war eher zufällig richtig. Manchmal fehlten naheliegende, reale Direktverbindungen. Ansich aber gutes Konzept der App.

Noch nicht sehr ausgereift

Die App hat noch viel vor sich. Es fehlen klare Übersichten und Karten. Auch eine Auflistung, welche Haltestellen angefahren werden, fehlt. Wenn man in die Map rein zoomt kommen manche Haltestellen nicht oder sehr spät. Dbiegi zum Beispiel taucht nur sporadisch auf der Livemap auf. 🤷🏼‍♀️ Wir hoffen ihr entwickelt euch immer weiter. 👍🏼

Wenig hilfreich

Die App lief stabil, ich konnte ich meine Kreditkarte hinterlegen (SMS kam bei mir an). Die Suchfunktion „von-nach“ ist etwas versteckt, aber da. Nur fuhren die ausgespuckten Verbindungen nicht wie in der App angezeigt, während sich die tatsächlichen Verbindungen, die am Busbahnhof angezeigt wurden, nicht finden ließen. Daher habe ich die Fahrkarten beim Busfahrer gekauft. Bar geht das nur, wenn man passendes Kleingeld hat. Aber Kreditkarten (auch kontaktlos per Smartphone oder Watch) funktionierten einwandfrei. Die App hat mir daher nicht geholfen. Die Einheimischen nutzen die App, denn man kann seine 12-Fahrten-Tallinja-Karte per Code in die App hochladen und braucht nicht auf die Karte aufzupassen. Für meine 6 Fahrten hat sich das nicht gerechnet.

App-Datenschutz

Der Entwickler, Malta Public Transport , hat darauf hingewiesen, dass die Datenschutzrichtlinien der App den unten stehenden Umgang mit Daten einschließen können. Weitere Informationen findest du in den Datenschutzrichtlinien des Entwicklers .

Daten, die zum Tracking deiner Person verwendet werden

Die folgenden Daten werden möglicherweise verwendet, um dich über Apps und Websites anderer Unternehmen hinweg zu verfolgen:

• Nutzungs­daten

Mit dir verknüpfte Daten

Die folgenden Daten werden möglicherweise erfasst und mit deiner Identität verknüpft:

• Kontakt­informa­tionen

Nicht mit dir verknüpfte Daten

Die folgenden Daten werden zwar möglicherweise erfasst, aber nicht mit deiner Identität verknüpft:

• Finanz­informa­tionen

Die Datenschutzpraktiken können zum Beispiel je nach den von dir verwendeten Funktionen oder deinem Alter variieren. Weitere Infos

Informationen

Englisch, Französisch, Griechisch, Portugiesisch, Spanisch

• Website des Entwicklers
• App-Support
• Datenschutzrichtlinie

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Due to a technical fault, erroneous top ups were effected on some Tallinja Cards. This means that credit was added to some Tallinja Card accounts without the card holder actually paying. These erroneous top ups are being reversed. In order to view your transaction history and check whether this has affected your Tallinja Card, please click on the link below and enter your customer number and the last four digits found on the barcode on your Tallinja Card.

Tallinja app

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Explore Flex card

Starting on 1st october for all personalised tallinja card holders // plan your journey.

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Service Updates

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Malta Public Transport to provide Special Services for Festa Frawli and San Girgor Feast

New real-time bus tracking feature improves commuting experience with Tallinja App

Shuttle services available for malta marathon, valentine's day 2023 competition: win two €50 worth of vouchers, temporary terminus relocation for carnival routes due to weather conditions, special bus services for valletta and nadur carnival.

We employ over 1,000 professional drivers who go through rigorous training to obtain their international Certificate of Professional Competence.

Use your explore card in Gozo

The easiest way to explore our islands by bus.

Get your 12 journey card

Get your explore card

And visit our many villages and towns.

Our Commitment

Our bus fleet is one of the youngest in Europe

We are committed to improve our bus users’ experience.

Our bus network includes over 2,000 bus stops in practically every locality with 5,200 daily trips offering you an easy way to travel around the islands

More than half the Maltese population have a personalised tallinja card

Our Community

• Environment
• Accessibility

Malta has never had such a modern bus fleet. With the latest technology when it comes to diesel engines, our fleet is environmentally friendly and efficient. This offers our bus users an added benefit by contributing towards a better environment when travelling by bus.

Safety is a top priority. Our buses are constantly on the road and we are responsible for the safety of our employees, passengers and of the public in general. With 5,200 bus trips done every day, we all have a major role to play when it comes to road safety.

Besides having low emissions, all our buses are low floor with easy access for anyone with wheelchairs and pushchairs with priority seating for those in need. We have audio and visual systems announcing the next bus stop on every bus. We also offer different fare structures to disabled persons, elderly persons, children and students thanks to our personalised tallinja card. This is all part of our commitment to promote mobility within our community.

• New Electric Vehicles
• New e-Kickscooters
• Retrofitting of DPFs and SCR Systems on Heavy Duty Vehicles
• Use of LPG as Fuel for Vehicles
• New Petrol-powered Motorcycles
• New Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
• Retrofitting of Photovoltaic Panels on Passenger Transport Vehicles
• Retrofitting of Battery Electric Powertrains on Motor Vehicles
• Used Electric Vehicles
• Conversion of Bicycles to Pedelecs
• Changes to my Driving Licence
• Driving Abroad
• Exchange your foreign Driving Licence
• Lost Driving Licences, Counterparts, or Tags
• MoU between Malta and the United Kingdom on exchange of driving licences
• Obtaining your driving licence
• Penalty Points
• Renewing your Driving Licence
• Withdrawal of Driving Licence
• Change of Ownership
• Garaging and De-Garaging of Vehicles
• Licence Fees
• Licensed Importer/Car Dealer
• Licensing Vehicles for Hire or Reward
• Number Plates
• Registering a Vehicle - Documents required
• Registering and Licensing a Motor Vehicle imported from an EU State
• Registering and Licensing a Vintage Motor Vehicle
• Registration of End-of-Series Vehicles
• Registering and Licensing an e-Kickscooter
• Registration of Vehicles to be used on Weekends and Public Holidays
• Re-Registration of Undocumented and/or De-registered Vintage Vehicles
• Renewal of Road Licence
• Replacement/Lost Licence Disc
• Scrapping of Vehicles
• Temporary Permits
• Transfer of Residence Scheme
• When is renewal due
• List of VRT Stations
• List of VRT Testers
• VRT Tester Standards
• VRT Station Licence
• Technical Services
• Link to Journey Planner
• Park and Ride Services and Fares
• Public Transport Connections to University and Post-Secondary Schools
• Public Transport Monitoring
• Special Vintage Bus Services
• Renting a car or bike
• Coaches and minibuses
• Light Passenger Transport Vehicles (up to 8 passenger seats plus driver)
• Electric mini cabs
• Trackless Trains
• Sightseeing Transport Services
• Horse Drawn Cabs (Karrozzini)
• Technical guidelines
• Road works compliance report
• Enforcement during road works
• List of contractors
• Regulation and policy
• Permanent Traffic Management
• Traffic Management Division Contact Details
• Application for Parking Bays for Blue Badge Holders
• Road Safety - colouring posters
• Child Car Seats
• Pedestrian Safety
• Driver Of Buses, Coaches, Minibuses and Trucks
• Taxi Drivers
• Carriage of Goods by Road with Light Commercial Vehicles LCVs
• Carriage of Goods by Road within the European Union
• Carriage of Goods by Road involving non-EU Countries (ECMT)
• Carriage of Dangerous Goods (ADR)
• Horse Drawn Cabs
• Renting Vehicles and Motorcycles
• Light Passenger Transport (up to 8 passenger seats plus driver)
• Passenger Transport (more than 9 seats)
• Passenger Transport - Courtesy Buses
• Trackless Train Transport Services

Sightseeing Routes

• Vehicles used for the Carriage of Dangerous Goods
• Goods Carrying Vehicle
• Light Passenger Vehicle (8 seats plus driver)
• Passenger Transport Vehicle (more than 9 seats)
• Taxis and Electric Mini Cabs
• Car Park Attendants
• Use of Animals and Animal-drawn Vehicles on the Road
• Driving Animals or Animal-drawn Vehicles on the Road

Sightseeing Passenger Transport Routes can be operated by holders of a valid Carriage of Passengers Operator’s Licence issued by Transport Malta. A sightseeing passenger transport route means a route established and published by the Authority and which may be used by operators for the purpose of taking passengers to and from sites and attractions in Malta and Gozo and which have a number of pre-determined pick-up and drop-off points.There are currently three routes that have been published by Transport Malta,which are: the North Route, the South Route and the Island of Gozo Route. These routes are normally serviced by open top buses and vintage buses.

Application and fees to operate on sightseeing transport routes:

Once the operator obtains an operator’s licence and wishes to operate on sightseeing transport routes, he/she will also be required to fill application form SRT to indicate which route he/she is interested in operating. There is also an annual fee of €37,000 for each route payable to Transport Malta; however, if the total number of passenger seats on the passenger transport vehicles to be operated on a sightseeing transport route does not exceed 175 passenger seats, the annual fee payable for that sightseeing transport route will be of €210 for each passenger seat of each passenger transport vehicle. Moreover, operators who intend to provide passenger transport services on sightseeing routes by means of Vintage Buses will only be required to pay an annual fee of €500 for all sightseeing transport routes. Vintage buses are defined as passenger transport vehicles which have their engine compartment situated in front of the windscreen, and were :-

• Manufactured and registered in Malta as motor route buses prior to the 1stJanuary, 1960, and were registered in Malta for at least 5 years prior to the 19thMay, 2009,and
• Manufactured prior to the 1st of January, 1960 and registered in Malta as motor vehicles for the carriage of passengers prior to the 1st of January , 1992, and were registered in Malta for at least 5 consecutive years prior to the 19th of May, 2009 and may carry not more than 30 passengers.

Tracking devices to be fitted on all passenger transport vehicles operating on sightseeing transport routes:

Transport Malta has set minimum specifications and reporting obligations concerning tracking devices, which must be fitted on all passenger transport vehicles that are authorized to service sightseeing passenger transport routes. The tracking devices should be capable of recording the following data and transmitting it to the service provider at the minimum rate of 1 update per minute:

• Vehicle Registration Number
• Position of Vehicle, including street location
• Ignition status
• Speed (in km/h)

These tracking devices will be inspected by the Authority for conformity.

Minimum service standards for operators and drivers of sightseeing transport routes:

Operators of sightseeing transport routes are required to make available to the public all information pertaining to fares, schedules, routes, pick up and drop off points, and any specific restrictions that would restrict any passenger or passenger category from using the service. Such information must also be available on each passenger transport vehicle operating on such route. Operators and drivers must comply with all the information made publicly available. Drivers must not, while carrying out regular passenger services, pick up and, or drop off passengers on any location other than the pick up and drop off points approved by the Authority. The driver operating the service shall need to be in possession of a Driver Permit Tag. For more information please click here  

Page last updated: 04/08/2022

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Malta’s ‘tallinja card’ offers excellent convenience and flexibility for passengers

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Posted: 27 October 2016 | Konrad Pulé, General Manager of Malta Public Transport | 2 comments

Malta Public Transport is modernising its bus fleet and implementing new technologies to increase efficiency. Konrad Pulé explains further…

Bus transportation in Malta is undergoing a transformation with investments being made to modernise its bus fleet and in implementing new technologies to increase efficiency. Konrad Pulé, General Manager of Malta Public Transport, explains that one particular success of the national bus operator has been the introduction of a popular new bus card.

Malta Public Transport is responsible for the operation of all public transport services by bus on the Maltese islands, and covers 30 million kilometres every year with a fleet of 380 buses and a team of over 1,300 people. Throughout the first year of operation in 2015 it is estimated that approximately 40 million passengers were carried – a significant increase when compared to previous years.

Revolutionising transport: investing in new technology to increase efficiency

Following the share transfer that took place in January 2015, we immediately began the implementation of a number of major changes within the organisation. These were aimed at improving performance in general to align with contractual requirements and to provide an efficient bus service.

Malta Public Transport has a fleet of 380 buses

Our priority was to change our internal systems to enable us to be in a better position to control the service. This included the replacement of the ticketing and fleet management system across the entire bus fleet, resulting in stronger controls at all levels and better information for our customers.

New fleet tracking system

The fleet tracking and management system was completely changed during 2015, enabling us to know where every bus is in real-time. This information enabled us to gather information on service reliability and punctuality. It also enabled us to fine-tune route schedules according to the time of day and the day of the week, therefore providing drivers and passengers with more realistic running times.

Our technology can be upgraded further with other solutions such as signal priority and bus lane enforcement.

A technology-based Control Room was installed in order to manage the services in real-time. Reliability and punctuality of the service are the main two targets of our team and we are making good progress in both, especially taking account of the traffic context in Malta.

Different tallinja cards and fares are available

Situations can sometimes occur, such as delays to our services due to unavoidable traffic jams or accidents, but our customers can still plan ahead. We launched a mobile app and an SMS service that gives bus users access to real-time information on which buses are due to arrive at their bus stop within the next 30 minutes. This proved to be very successful with over 50,000 downloads in the first three months.

This success was a result of Autobuses De Leon (ALESA) transferring its knowledge to Malta Public Transport. As a result the IT system tested by ALESA in other localities was adapted to Malta in order to improve information for the company and for passengers.

A successful new bus card

In July 2015 we launched a new bus card. This was a critical step to reduce the dependency on cash transactions, whilst opening up other controlled revenue channels that are more efficient. It required a significant investment in technology and communications, and the results were very positive.

“We were overwhelmed with the success of the new bus card in Malta,” said Felipe Cosmen, Chairman of Malta Public Transport. “Half the Maltese population obtained their bus card within a short period of just six months with over 82% of passengers now using a card when travelling by bus. This is a major achievement for the country as it revolutionised the way people buy their bus tickets, especially when one considers that practically everyone used to pay for their bus tickets in cash on the bus until June 2015.”

“We had to convince more vulnerable bus users, like the elderly, that this was the way forward,” explained Hon Joe Mizzi, the Maltese Minister for Transport and Infrastructure during the Transport Ticketing Conference held in Warsaw, Poland in October 2015. “We had to convince them that they had to have a plastic card to benefit from the reduced fares. The plastic card had to be topped-up with credit to be used on the bus. That was challenging as it presented a completely new concept to this category of bus users. To date, over 70% of the elderly population have a bus card, demonstrating the success of the implementation campaign.”

tallinja card

The bus card – branded as ‘tallinja card 1 ’ – is an intelligent bus card designed to make it easy for customers to use the bus. The card is personalised with the customer’s photo and name and can be easily topped-up with credit online, over the phone, at any of our sales outlets or at any post office. The credit on the card does not expire. When registering for a tallinja card, customers automatically benefit from cheaper fares than when they pay on the bus. Different cards and fares are available for children, students and adults. There is also a concession card which is available to elderly and disabled passengers; and a specific card for Gozo 2 residents.

This shift in culture brought about new challenges for us to ensure that sufficient and effective top-up channels were easily available to all segments of users. Not only did the use of the card itself surpass our expectations, but the electronic top-up channels were very popular with almost 60% of top-ups taking place electronically over the Internet, or using the phone or mobile app. 

Bus services in Malta – historical background

On 3 July 2011 the bus service in Malta was taken over by a subsidiary of the Arriva Group. This followed a competitive tendering process launched in July 2009 by the government. The operating company faced a number of operational and financial challenges during the last quarter of 2013. The image of the company and the services subsequently systematically deteriorated. A mutual decision was taken between the government and Arriva Malta Limited for the government to buy back the company and take over the bus service and re-issue a competitive tender to identify a new bus operator in 2014. Following this mutual agreement, the public transport service company was taken over by the government on the 2 January 2014 and was operated by the government for the entire year. The Government of Malta issued an ‘expression of interest’ notice for the provision of scheduled bus services in Malta and Gozo and the sale of the existing company, and Autobuses de Leon (ALESA) was selected as the preferred bidder. The related evaluation and negotiation process was concluded towards the end of 2014. The share transfer was subsequently completed on 8 January 2015 when the new company began operating the public transport service.

The tallinja card system

Our system is easy to use. There is no need to choose the type of ticket to buy. There is no need to plan and think what the best fare will be based on what travelling patterns may be for the next few days or weeks. The card automatically chooses the best fare available at any time so that customers just have to top-up their cards and validate them every time they board the bus. It can also recognise interchanges carried out along routes, therefore allowing passengers to change routes without being charged again.

In the first customer survey of 2016, nine out of 10 tallinja card users were satisfied with the service. The opportunities are infinite. Now that half the population in the country has this bus card, it can, and will in the near future, be used for multi-modal transport and integrated ticketing systems.

Passengers can top-up their tallinja card using the Malta Public Transport app

Malta Public Transport also provides other cards that can be used immediately without the need to register. The ‘7-Day Explore’ card provides unlimited travel for one week. There is a card for adults and another for children (up to 10 years old). An additional card, the ‘12 Single Day Journeys’ card, offers flexibility with reduced fares; perfect for those using the bus every now and then, this card can be shared and is valid for one year.

Standard cash tickets can also be purchased from the driver on the buses. These tickets are Single Journey tickets that can be used to get to any destination within two hours, including interchanging.

The new, customised fleet: Euro 6 engines and narrower buses for Maltese roads

We have invested significantly in modernising the bus fleet, making it safer, more environmentally-friendly and more comfortable. Throughout summer 2015, 143 new Euro 6 buses were put into service featuring the latest emission standards together with improved safety and comfort standards.

Apart from contributing to the overall quality of the service, they also contributed to the reduction in maintenance and fuel consumption costs. Additional new buses have already been introduced in 2016 without any contractual obligation to do so, making our fleet one of the youngest and most environmentally-friendly in Europe.

With the latest technology when it comes to diesel engines, our fleet is environmentally-friendly and efficient, offering our customers an added benefit by contributing towards a better environment when travelling by bus.

All route buses are cleaned and maintained regularly and are equipped with air-conditioning systems for added comfort. All the new buses have two doors to facilitate the boarding and alighting of passengers.

The availability and reliability of the fleet has increased significantly and in a consistent manner, almost reaching the standard levels in Europe in just one year. 

Investing in people: recruitment and training

A major recruitment drive was conducted by the company to almost double the amount of drivers. We recruited over 600 new drivers in 2015 bringing numbers up to the required levels in order to provide an efficient bus service. All the new drivers have been through rigorous training to obtain their international Certificate of Professional Competence.

The health and safety of employees and the safety of the environment in which they work is a top priority for us. Buses are constantly on the road and we are not only responsible for the safety of our employees, but also for the safety of our passengers and of the public in general.

With 5,200 bus trips carried out every day, we have a major role to play when it comes to road safety. Despite running very ambitious training plans and putting safety measures in place to reduce accidents, the injuries per million passenger ratio has already dropped significantly over the last year, which clearly shows that we are on the right track.

We are investing in technology and in our employees to improve safety and the overall customer experience. In fact, we have recently brought a new driving simulator to Malta which is now being customised to reflect the Maltese road network. Although the simulator is a training system that has been previously tried and tested in other companies in our group, it is a first for Malta that will undoubtedly contribute towards improving the skills of our drivers, particularly in circumstances that could otherwise not be easily assessed and trained on the road.

Significantly extending the route network

The Malta Public Transport app provides real-time information about bus arrivals

A major change was also made to our bus route network in line with the contracted requirements set by the contracting Authority following an extensive government public consultation. This too required investment in planning, training and information.

These route changes meant that there was an increase from 25 million kilometres to almost 30 million kilometres per year. The frequency of trips was also increased from 4,800 up to 5,200 trips daily, with a further increase to 5,600 trips during the summer months.

A positive outlook

In the first six months of 2016 we experienced an increase in passenger numbers and invested in another 33 new Euro 6 buses.

We continue to review the performance of each bus route to identify whether further improvements can be made. It is difficult to provide a high quality public transport service in Malta without sufficient bus priority measures. Our company has established a constructive relationship with the Transport Authority 3 to study solutions that can make public transport easier to use, and faster.

While being very well aware of the challenges we face, we are committed to improve the overall bus user experience and to provide a safe, credible and efficient bus service in Malta and Gozo; one that will convince more car users to take the bus.

• The name ‘tallinja’ comes from the Maltese words ‘tal-linja’ which is the way the Maltese people refer to the bus service
• Gozo is a smaller sister island in the Maltese archipelago with around 32,000 residents
• The Authority for Transport in Malta is the contracting authority responsible for developing and controlling public transport in Malta.

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2 responses to “malta’s ‘tallinja card’ offers excellent convenience and flexibility for passengers”.

It would be nice to have a reduced fare card for visiting senior citizens as can be got in other countries.

Yes I agree with the above comment. A reduced fare for senior citizens visiting Malta would help. I visit at least twice each year and last October spent quite a lot of money on tallinja cards. I am British and and cannot imagine what would happen in our country if non British people were expected to pay a higher fare!

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